Save to Pinterest Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Spicy Tangy Baked Chicken Curry. Featuring juicy, yogurt-marinated chicken thighs nestled in a vibrant, creamy coconut curry sauce, this dish is infused with fresh ginger and turmeric for a bold, aromatic profile. It strikes a perfect balance of heat and tang, making it an ideal centerpiece for cozy dinners served with fluffy rice or warm naan.
Save to Pinterest The combination of classic Indian-inspired spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander creates a deeply flavorful base, while a hint of honey and lime juice adds a sophisticated brightness to the finished dish.
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade:
- 8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp grated fresh garlic
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Curry Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp grated fresh garlic
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat recommended)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
To Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, turmeric, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (up to overnight).
- Step 2: Preparation
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat vegetable oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in ginger and garlic; cook 1 minute.
- Step 4: Bloom Spices
- Add cumin, coriander, garam masala, and cayenne (if using); cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 5: Prepare Sauce
- Stir in coconut milk, diced tomatoes, honey, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 6: Assemble for Baking
- Nestle marinated chicken thighs into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over each thigh.
- Step 7: Bake
- Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C) and sauce is bubbling.
- Step 8: Final Seasoning
- Remove from oven, stir in lime juice. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Step 9: Serve
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with rice or naan, plus lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using an oven-safe skillet or a Dutch oven is essential for a seamless transition from the stovetop to the oven. For the most tender results, do not skip the marinating time, as the yogurt helps break down the proteins in the chicken.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer white meat, you can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs, though you should adjust the baking time to ensure they do not overcook. For a lighter meal, this curry pairs excellently with cauliflower rice.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this vibrant curry over a bed of steamed basmati rice or with toasted naan bread to soak up every drop of the tangy sauce. It pairs beautifully with a crisp Riesling or a cold beer to balance the bold spices.
Save to Pinterest This Spicy Tangy Baked Chicken Curry is a testament to how simple ingredients like yogurt and aromatic spices can transform into a restaurant-quality meal right in your own oven. Enjoy the rich layers of flavor in every bite!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?
Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the yogurt and spices to tenderize and infuse the meat. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used but will require a shorter baking time to avoid drying out. Adjust cooking time accordingly and monitor internal temperature.
- → What is the role of yogurt in this dish?
Yogurt tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang, balancing the heat from chili powder and spices while keeping the meat juicy during baking.
- → How spicy is this dish and can heat be adjusted?
The dish provides a moderate heat from chili powder and cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount of chili powder or omit cayenne to suit your preferred spice level.
- → What sides pair well with this flavorful chicken?
Steamed basmati rice, warm naan bread, or cauliflower rice complement the bold and tangy flavors, soaking up the vibrant curry sauce beautifully.