Chinese Chicken Curry

Chinese Chicken Curry is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables in a rich, flavorful sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to casual gatherings. Its unique blend of spices and easy preparation makes it a standout choice for anyone craving a taste of homemade Chinese cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The homemade curry sauce is packed with spices that create a deliciously aromatic dish.
• Versatile: You can customize the vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

In order to prepare this delicious Chinese Chicken Curry easily, having the right tools in your kitchen is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pan or skillet
• Medium pot
• Whisk
• Chopping board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pan or skillet: Perfect for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables quickly and evenly.
• Medium pot: Ideal for preparing the flavorful curry sauce without splatters.
• Whisk: Ensures all sauce ingredients are well combined for an even flavor.

Ingredients

Tender chicken slices, bell pepper, onion and green peas cooked in flavourful homemade Chinese curry sauce.

For the Chicken

• 12 oz Chicken breast (or chicken thigh, about 350 g)

For the Vegetables

• ½ Sweet onion (sliced)
• 1 Bell pepper (sliced)
• ½ cup Green peas
• Spring onions (chopped, for garnish)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp Garlic (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Soy sauce
• ¼ tsp White pepper
• 1½ cup Chicken stock (low sodium)
• 1 tbsp Curry powder (use any curry powder mild/hot)
• 1 tsp Chinese five spices powder
• ½ tsp Turmeric powder
• ½ tsp Chilli powder (or paprika powder)
• ½ tsp Salt (adjust salt according to taste)
• 1 tsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Corn Starch
• 1 tbsp Plain Flour

How to Make Chinese Chicken Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into thin slices. Season them with a tablespoon of soy sauce and ¼ teaspoon of white pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Cut the Vegetables

Prepare your vegetables by slicing the onion and bell pepper into thin strips. Finely chop the garlic cloves.

Step 3: Make the Curry Sauce

In a medium pot, add chicken stock, turmeric, curry powder, Chinese five spices, chilli powder, corn starch, and plain flour. Add salt and sugar to taste. Whisk well to dissolve all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce

Turn on the heat to medium-low and cook while stirring continuously until the sauce starts to thicken. Once thickened, turn off the heat and keep it warm.

Step 5: Stir-fry Chicken

In a large pan or skillet, drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Add the seasoned chicken slices and stir-fry over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes until cooked through.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Push the cooked chicken to one side of the pan. Add chopped garlic, stirring for a few seconds before adding onion slices, bell pepper strips, and green peas. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Combine with Sauce

Pour in your prepared curry sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. If too thick, add warm water or chicken stock gradually as needed.

Step 8: Taste Test

Make sure to taste your dish! Adjust salt or sugar according to your preference if necessary.

Step 9: Serve

Remove from heat and transfer your delicious Chinese Chicken Curry onto a serving plate.

Step 10: Garnish & Enjoy

Serve immediately over a bowl of steamed rice. Garnish with chopped spring onions for added flavor!

This recipe serves two but can easily be doubled for more guests! Enjoy your homemade Chinese Chicken Curry!

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Curry

Chinese Chicken Curry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving this delicious curry correctly enhances its taste and presentation, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is the classic companion for Chinese Chicken Curry, absorbing the rich sauce perfectly.

With Noodles

• Serve the curry over cooked noodles for a delightful twist. Egg noodles or rice noodles work exceptionally well.

In a Wrap

• For a fun and portable meal, spoon the curry into a wrap or tortilla. Add some fresh lettuce for crunch.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve atop fresh spinach or mixed greens for a lighter option. The greens will wilt slightly beneath the warm curry.

With Poppadoms

• Crispy poppadoms add texture and contrast to the soft chicken and sauce. They make an excellent side snack.

How to Perfect Chinese Chicken Curry

To achieve the best flavor and consistency in your Chinese Chicken Curry, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken boost flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by varying the amount of chili powder you add, catering to your taste preference.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the curry to simmer longer enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your curry while cooking to adjust seasonings like salt and sugar according to your liking.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or snap peas for added color and nutrients.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Chinese Chicken Curry

Pairing side dishes with Chinese Chicken Curry can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to complement the dish.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds crunch and nutrients alongside your curry.
2. Fried Rice: Flavored fried rice brings another layer of texture and flavor that pairs well with curry.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a cool contrast, balancing out the heat of the curry.
4. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls are great for dipping into curry sauce, adding an extra crunch.
5. Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread can be used to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.
6. Mango Chutney: A sweet mango chutney provides a delightful contrast to savory flavors in your curry.
7. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds depth with its nutty flavor when served alongside curry.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs can act as a healthy base under your chicken curry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chinese Chicken Curry, there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate your chicken with soy sauce and spices for at least 15 minutes for better taste.
• Using Low-Quality Chicken Stock: Poor-quality stock can affect the curry’s flavor. Opt for low-sodium chicken stock to maintain control over the saltiness.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until tender while keeping them vibrant and crisp.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: A sauce that’s too thick or thin can ruin your dish. Adjust thickness by adding water or stock gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste can result in imbalanced flavors. Always check seasoning and adjust salt or sugar before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the curry to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Chinese Chicken Curry

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Make sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chinese Chicken Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chinese Chicken Curry?

Chinese Chicken Curry is a flavorful dish made with tender chicken slices and vegetables cooked in a rich curry sauce, perfect served over rice.

How can I customize my Chinese Chicken Curry?

You can customize your curry by adding different vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas. Adjust spices based on your preference for heat.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking results.

What type of curry powder should I use?

You can use any type of curry powder you prefer, whether mild or hot, depending on your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and replace chicken stock with vegetable stock for a delightful vegan version.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Curry offers a delicious blend of flavors that is both comforting and versatile. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spice levels to make it your own. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful taste!

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