This rich, comforting chicken curry is packed with warm spices, tender chicken, and fresh spinach, making it a wholesome and flavorful dish. Serve it with rice or gluten-free naan for a satisfying meal!
🌿 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ lb (700g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- ½ cup plain dairy-free yogurt (or regular yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Curry:
- 2 tablespoons oil (coconut or vegetable)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tomato, finely chopped (or ½ cup canned tomatoes)
- 1 cup coconut milk (or water for a lighter version)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garam masala (for finishing)
- Juice of ½ lemon
For Garnish:
- Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
- Toasted cashews or almonds (optional)
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix chicken with yogurt, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, salt, ginger, and garlic.
- Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2️⃣ Cook the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add onions and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chili. Cook for another minute.
3️⃣ Build the Curry Base
- Add coriander powder, paprika, red chili powder, and tomatoes.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften.
4️⃣ Cook the Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in coconut milk (or water) and let it simmer for 15 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
5️⃣ Add the Spinach
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook for another 5 minutes, until wilted.
- Sprinkle with garam masala and squeeze lemon juice for freshness.
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh coriander and toasted cashews/almonds if using.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or gluten-free naan.
✨ Tips & Variations:
- Creamier Version: Add ¼ cup cashew cream or extra coconut milk.
- Spicier Curry: Increase the red chili powder or add more green chilies.
- Vegan Alternative: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu!
Enjoy your chicken & spinach curry—warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor! 🍛✨🌿
