This Quick and Flavorful Chinese Curry Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken and aromatic spices, all cooked in a delicious, savory sauce. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish brings the comforting flavors of a Chinese takeout favorite right to your kitchen. It’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 (12 oz / 340 g) chicken breast, thinly sliced against the grain into 1/4″ (5mm) thick pieces
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- For the Spice Mix:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder (*Footnote 1)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, depending on spice level)
- For the Stir Fry:
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1/2 large white onion, chopped
- 1/2″ (1 cm) ginger, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by combining the chicken slices with salt, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix well and set aside to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the curry powder, turmeric powder, and chili flakes (if using). Set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the onion starts to soften and become translucent.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
- Add the Vegetables and Spices: Add the chopped green bell pepper and sliced carrot to the skillet. Stir in the prepared spice mix, making sure to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the sugar, salt, and oyster sauce. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Serve: Once the curry has thickened and everything is well-coated in the sauce, remove from heat. Serve the Chinese Curry Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
This Quick and Flavorful Chinese Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the warmth of curry spices with the freshness of vegetables and tender chicken. It’s a fantastic option when you’re craving a homemade, restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe will bring a burst of flavor to your table that everyone will love!