Healthy Chicken Curry

Summary: A vibrant, nourishing curry that blends tender chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk for a guilt-free dinner. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for any night.

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $12

Ingredients

For the Curry Base

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated

Spice Mix

1½ tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon ground cumin

Protein & Liquids

500 g skinless chicken breast, cut into 2 cm cubes
400 ml light coconut milk
200 ml low-sodium chicken stock

Veggies & Finish

1 medium tomato, chopped
1 cup baby spinach leaves
Juice of 1 lime
Handful fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Garnish

Sliced green chillies
Extra cilantro sprigs

Equipments

Large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
Grater

Method

Heat oil in your skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Then add onion, stirring until softened and translucent.
Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let them burn.
Add curry powder, turmeric, garam masala, and cumin. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to bloom the spices and deepen their flavor.
Push the aromatics to the side. Place chicken pieces in the center. Sear on all sides for 3–4 minutes until turning white.
Pour in coconut milk and chicken stock. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Bring to a gentle simmer. Then cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Uncover. Stir in chopped tomato and spinach. Simmer for 3–4 more minutes until the spinach wilts.
Squeeze lime juice over the curry. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with cilantro and sliced chillies if using. Serve hot with steamed rice or whole-grain naan.

Notes and Variations

Lean Protein Choice: Skinless chicken breast offers a lean source of protein, supporting muscle health and satiety Calorie Control: A 100 g serving of raw chicken breast contains roughly 120 calories and 26 g protein
Creamy Base: Light coconut milk adds healthy fats without heaviness
Boosted Nutrition: Stir in extra veggies like bell peppers or peas to up fiber and color.
Spice Level: Increase curry powder or add chilli flakes for more heat.

Expert Tips

Spice Blooming: Always toast your spices briefly in oil for a richer aroma and flavor.
Anti-Inflammatory Punch: Turmeric’s curcumin offers potent anti-inflammatory benefits Medical News Today.
Aromatic Trio: Ginger aids digestion and reduces inflammation Medical News Today, while garlic supports heart health and immunity Medical News Today.
Balanced Flavors: Finish with lime juice to lift the dish and balance richness.