Introduction

Mild Chicken, Chickpea, and Squash Curry is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth and nourishment to the table. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with hearty chickpeas and seasonal squash, all enveloped in a fragrant curry sauce. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy gathering, this dish can easily be adjusted to suit varying spice preferences, making it a versatile option for everyone to enjoy.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs, skinless and boneless – 500g
Chickpeas, canned – 400g (drained and rinsed)
Squash, diced – 300g
Onion, finely chopped – 1 large
Garlic cloves, minced – 3
Ginger, grated – 1 tablespoon
Coconut milk – 400ml
Curry powder – 2 tablespoons
Vegetable broth – 250ml
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper – to taste
Fresh coriander, chopped – for garnish

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and chopping the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and chop into chunks. Rinse the chickpeas if using canned and set aside.

Cook the Base

In a large pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.

Add Spices and Squash

Stir in the curry powder and add the chopped squash to the pan. Mix well and let the squash cook for a few minutes to absorb the spices.

Add Chicken

Incorporate the chicken pieces into the pan. Stir to coat them in the spice mixture, cooking until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

Add Chickpeas and Liquid

Pour in the chickpeas and add coconut milk along with a splash of water. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken and squash are submerged in the liquid.

Simmer the Curry

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for around 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the squash is tender.

Finish and Serve

Taste the curry and add salt as needed. Serve hot with rice or naan, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Storage

This curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well if you want to make it ahead.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach or carrots, or by using different proteins such as lentils or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Adjusting Spice Levels

To make the curry milder, reduce the amount of curry powder. Conversely, for a spicier dish, consider adding chili flakes or fresh chilies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or warm naan. A side of yogurt can also add a nice cooling effect.

Cook techniques

Chopping vegetables

Prepare your vegetables by chopping them into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.

Sautéing

Sauté vegetables in a bit of oil, allowing them to soften and develop flavor before adding other ingredients.

Simmering

Simmer the curry gently to meld all the flavors together, allowing the ingredients to cook thoroughly without boiling.

Seasoning

Add spices such as curry powder and salt at the right moment to enhance the dish without overwhelming it.

Incorporating legumes

Add chickpeas to the curry to introduce protein and texture, ensuring they are cooked until tender.

FAQ

Can I use different vegetables in this curry?

Yes, feel free to substitute with other vegetables you prefer or have on hand.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the curry?

To adjust the heat, you can modify the amount of curry powder or add a milder version of it.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The curry can be made in advance and stored, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Can I make this curry vegan?

Yes, this curry is already vegan-friendly as it doesn’t contain any animal products.

What can I serve with this curry?

This curry pairs well with rice, naan, or even quinoa for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

This Mild Chicken, Chickpea, and Squash Curry is a delightful dish that combines the warmth of spices with nutritious ingredients. The balance of tender chicken, hearty chickpeas, and sweet squash creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings, and can be easily customized to suit individual tastes.

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