Description
Spicy Leftover Chicken Curry brings British-Indian flavors to your kitchen with incredible ease. Rich, aromatic spices meld perfectly with tender chicken, creating a delicious meal you can savor in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Vegetables:
- 2 cups (480 ml) cooked leftover chicken, shredded
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece of ginger, grated
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) curry powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquid and Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 ounces / 400 grams) chopped tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces / 400 ml) coconut milk
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Warm a spacious skillet over medium heat, drizzling olive oil to create a cooking base for the aromatic foundation of the dish.
- Gently introduce finely diced onions, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger into the heated oil, allowing them to soften and release their fragrant essences for approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle a vibrant blend of ground curry powder, earthy cumin, bright coriander, golden turmeric, and optional fiery cayenne pepper into the sautéed vegetables, toasting the spices for 1-2 minutes to intensify their complex flavors.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and creamy coconut milk, stirring thoroughly to create a harmonious sauce that will envelop the protein with rich, layered flavors.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, enabling the spices and liquids to meld and develop a deep, robust flavor profile.
- Fold in the pre-cooked chicken pieces, ensuring each morsel is generously coated with the aromatic curry sauce, and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly heated.
- Assess the seasoning, adding kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the curry’s taste, adjusting according to personal preference.
- Transfer the fragrant curry to serving dishes, garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro leaves to add a bright, herbal note and visual appeal.
Notes
- Spice up leftover chicken by transforming it into a vibrant curry that saves time and reduces food waste.
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken pieces for the smoothest texture and easiest eating experience.
- Fresh whole spices elevate the curry’s depth and complexity far beyond pre-ground alternatives.
- Creamy coconut milk balances warm spices while adding luxurious richness to every bite.
- Personalize heat levels by adjusting cayenne pepper to match your spice tolerance.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container, enjoying within 3 days for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg