Chicken with yogurt and curry

Delicious Yogurt and Curry Chicken Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 8 hours (ideally overnight)
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 9 hours and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

When it comes to dishes that blend Eastern flavors with a beloved ingredient like chicken, the Yogurt and Curry Chicken recipe is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly tasty, transforming a common ingredient into a feast of flavors. The yogurt helps tenderize the meat, while the curry adds a touch of exoticism.

The history of the Yogurt and Curry Chicken recipe is fascinating. Over time, various cultures have discovered how yogurt can enhance the texture and flavor of meat. Curry, a spice blend, has deep roots in culinary traditions, and the combination of these two ingredients has created a dish found in many corners of the world.

Ingredients

- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg) or 3-4 chicken thighs
- 1 large container of yogurt (about 400-500 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of curry (adjust to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Dried or fresh basil (optional, for added flavor)

Necessary Utensils

- A large bowl for marinating
- A sharp knife
- A baking tray
- Plastic wrap
- A spatula or wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the meat: If you choose a whole chicken, start by cleaning and washing it well under cold running water. If using thighs, ensure they are well cleaned. Make sure to remove any excess fat or skin if you prefer a healthier dish.

2. Season: In a large bowl, add salt, pepper, and curry. The yogurt will absorb all the flavors of these spices, so don’t hesitate to be generous. Add basil if you want a fresh note.

3. Marinating: Pour the yogurt over the chicken, making sure all the meat is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to marinate. Ideally, let the chicken sit overnight, but a minimum of 4 hours will also yield very good results.

4. Preheat the oven: Before removing the chicken from the refrigerator, preheat the oven to 180°C. This step is essential for achieving even cooking.

5. Baking: After the chicken has marinated, take it out of the refrigerator and place it in a baking tray. You can also add some vegetables (for example, chopped carrots or potatoes) around the chicken to create a complete main dish. Cover the tray with aluminum foil for the first half of the cooking time, then remove the foil to allow the chicken to become golden and crispy.

6. Checking doneness: Bake the chicken for about 1 hour, and to ensure it is cooked properly, check that the juices running from the meat are clear and not pink. A simple method is to use a cooking thermometer, which should read 75°C inside the meat.

7. Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in juicier meat. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or a side of basmati rice to complete the meal.

Practical Tips

- Recipe variations: Experiment with other spices. Paprika, cumin, or even a bit of garlic can add an interesting twist.
- For a vegan option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan and use plant-based yogurt. The marinating will work similarly.
- Serving: This recipe pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or quinoa. You can also add a fresh vegetable salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Recommended drinks: A dry white wine or jasmine tea pairs excellently with the flavors of the curry.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 450
- Protein: 40 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use Greek yogurt? Yes, Greek yogurt is an excellent choice and will provide a creamier texture.
- What if I don’t have curry? You can use a spice blend or even a chili sauce to add heat.
- Can it be frozen? Cooked chicken can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best results.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! Yogurt and Curry Chicken is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a festive air to every meal. Enjoy your meal!