Embrace the aromatic spices and rich flavors of Indian cuisine with our tantalizing Slow Cooker Chicken Curry recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a fragrant curry sauce, infused with ginger, garlic, and a blend of exotic spices, create a mouthwatering experience that will leave your taste buds craving more. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the simple steps to create this delicious and satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless (can also opt for mix of drums too)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
- If using bone-in chicken thighs, remove the skin and excess fat. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Spice it Up:
- Sprinkle the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper over the sautéed aromatics. Stir well to coat the onions and spices evenly.
4. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the onion and spice mixture to the slow cooker. Place the chicken thighs on top of the onions, arranging them in a single layer.
5. Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk:
- Pour the diced tomatoes and coconut milk over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is coated in the flavorful sauce.
6. Season and Set:
- Season the chicken curry with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Serve and Garnish:
- Once cooked, remove the lid from the slow cooker and garnish the chicken curry with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve the Slow Cooker Chicken Curry hot over steamed rice or with warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this homemade curry and savor every delicious bite!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Chicken Variation: Feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast in place of bone-in chicken thighs for convenience.
- Custom Spice Blend: Experiment with different spices and adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat or include turmeric for additional depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Addition: Enhance the nutritional content of the curry by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or potatoes during the cooking process for added texture and flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto:
- Coconut Milk Selection: Opt for full-fat coconut milk to increase the fat content and maintain ketosis.
- Serve with Cauliflower Rice: Accompany the chicken curry with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to keep the dish keto-friendly and low in carbs.
- Reduce Tomatoes: Limit the amount of diced tomatoes used in the recipe to lower the carb count, or omit them entirely if desired.
Low-Carb:
- Minimal Tomato Usage: Use a smaller quantity of diced tomatoes or substitute with tomato paste for a lower-carb option.
- Portion Control: Enjoy smaller servings of the chicken curry to moderate your carb intake while still relishing in the delicious flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken thighs in this recipe. However, chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.
Q: How do I adjust the spice level of the curry? A: The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper used. Increase or decrease the quantity according to your heat preference.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of the chicken curry? A: Yes, leftover chicken curry can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: What can I serve with the slow cooker chicken curry? A: Slow Cooker Chicken Curry pairs well with steamed rice, naan bread, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the onion and spice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply transfer the mixture to the slow cooker along with the chicken when you’re ready to cook.
Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of our Slow Cooker Chicken Curry, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken thighs and fragrant curry sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this flavorful curry offers a taste of India that will transport your senses and leave you craving more. So why wait? Fire up your slow cooker and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of homemade chicken curry today!
