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Spicy Chicken Madras Curry

Spicy Chicken Madras Curry is a bold and flavorful South Indian dish made with tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices and fiery heat. Perfect for spice lovers seeking an authentic curry experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 12 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cinnamon stick. Let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
  2. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir to coat the onions and toast the spices.
  5. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and water or broth. Stir to combine.
  7. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.
  8. Stir in garam masala and lemon juice. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Adjust cayenne pepper for preferred spice level.
  • Use chicken breast for a leaner version, though thighs offer more flavor.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors develop.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken madras, spicy curry, Indian chicken curry, Madras curry, hot curry