Flavorful Chicken Curry with Yogurt Marinade
This delectable Chicken Curry is inspired by a classic recipe from an old Weight Watchers Cookbook, perfect for those seeking a healthier yet satisfying meal. The combination of yogurt and aromatic spices tenderizes the chicken, infusing it with rich flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve this vibrant dish over brown rice for a complete, nutritious meal that family and friends will love. Enjoy a comforting bowl of curry that not only warms the heart but also adheres to your wellness goals!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
plain low-fat yogurt
1/2 cup (none)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
curry powder
1 teaspoon (none)
ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon (none)
ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
ground red pepper
1 dash (none)
chicken parts, skinned
1 1/2 lbs (none)
vegetable oil
2 teaspoons (none)
chopped tomato
1/2 cup (none)
bay leaf
1 (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, curry powder, ground coriander, ground ginger, salt, and ground red pepper to create a marinade.
2
Add the chicken parts to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3
While the chicken marinates, heat vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
4
Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they turn lightly golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
5
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and bay leaf, allowing the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
6
Add the marinated chicken along with the remaining marinade into the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined.
7
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer, turning the chicken once or twice, for approximately 30 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
8
Before serving, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over brown rice for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flavorful Chicken Curry with Yogurt Marinade?
It is a healthier version of a classic chicken curry, inspired by Weight Watchers, that uses a spiced yogurt marinade to tenderize the chicken and create a rich flavor profile.
What are the main ingredients for the marinade?
The marinade consists of plain low-fat yogurt, minced garlic, curry powder, ground coriander, ground ginger, salt, and a dash of ground red pepper.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
The chicken should be allowed to marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure it is well-coated and tenderized.
What kind of chicken is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 lbs of skinned chicken parts, such as drumsticks, thighs, or breasts.
How do I prepare the onions for the curry?
The onions should be chopped and sautéed in vegetable oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they turn lightly golden brown.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, the recipe requires 1/2 cup of chopped tomatoes, which are simmered with a bay leaf until they soften.
How long does the chicken cook in the skillet?
The chicken needs to simmer for approximately 30 minutes, turning it once or twice, until it is thoroughly cooked and tender.
What should I serve with this chicken curry?
It is recommended to serve this dish hot over brown rice for a complete and nutritious meal.
Should I remove the bay leaf?
Yes, you should remove the bay leaf before serving the curry to your guests.
Is this recipe suitable for Weight Watchers?
Yes, this recipe is specifically inspired by a classic Weight Watchers Cookbook and is designed to be a healthier meal option.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of low-fat yogurt?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, though it may result in a slightly thicker sauce.
What size skillet is needed?
A 12-inch skillet is recommended to accommodate the chicken and the marinade comfortably.
Is this dish spicy?
The dish has a mild spice level from the curry powder and ground red pepper, which can be adjusted to your preference.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, you can substitute the 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger with about 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a brighter flavor.
Does the recipe require oil?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil are used to sauté the onions at the beginning of the cooking process.
What is the purpose of the yogurt marinade?
The acidity in the yogurt helps tenderize the chicken while the spices infuse the meat with deep flavor.
Can I marinate the chicken longer?
While the recipe calls for 30 minutes at room temperature, you can marinate it longer in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear, or when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas during the simmering stage can add more color and nutrition.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are gluten-free, but always double-check your curry powder labels to ensure no wheat-based fillers are present.
Can I use chicken breast instead of parts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, though you may need to reduce the simmering time slightly to prevent drying out.
What if I don't have ground red pepper?
You can substitute it with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, though the heat level may vary.
Why do I need to skin the chicken?
Skinning the chicken reduces the saturated fat content, making the dish leaner and healthier.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the onions and tomatoes first, then add everything to a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 primary ingredients required for this flavorful chicken curry.
Can I use olive oil?
Yes, olive oil is a perfectly fine substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this curry?
Yes, this curry freezes well. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
How do I reheat the dish?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Does this recipe use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe calls for 2 minced garlic cloves to be mixed into the yogurt marinade.