Quick & Easy Chicken Curry Recipes for Busy Weeknights

After a long day at work, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. Chicken curry is a versatile, delicious, and quick meal option that can be ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you prefer creamy, spicy, or tangy flavors, these easy chicken curry recipes will save your busy weeknights without compromising on taste.

1. 15-Minute Coconut Chicken Curry

This creamy coconut chicken curry is a lifesaver when you need dinner on the table fast. The rich coconut milk base makes it indulgent, while the spices add depth and warmth.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until translucent.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Toss in chicken cubes and cook until lightly browned.
4. Stir in curry powder, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Tip: For extra heat, add a chopped chili or a dash of cayenne pepper.

2. One-Pan Tomato Chicken Curry

This tangy and aromatic tomato-based curry is perfect for those who love bold flavors. Plus, it’s made in one pan for easy cleanup!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp oil
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet and brown the chicken thighs on both sides.
2. Add garlic, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. Stir for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in diced tomatoes and simmer for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
4. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Variation: Add a splash of cream for a richer texture.

3. 20-Minute Thai Green Chicken Curry

If you’re craving something fragrant and slightly spicy, this Thai-inspired green curry is a must-try. It’s packed with fresh herbs and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tbsp green curry paste
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. In a wok or large pan, cook the green curry paste for 1 minute over medium heat.
2. Add chicken slices and cook until no longer pink.
3. Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well.
4. Add bell peppers and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Top with fresh basil before serving.

Note: For extra veggies, toss in some snap peas or bamboo shoots.

4. Instant Pot Butter Chicken

If you have an Instant Pot, this butter chicken recipe will become your go-to. It’s rich, creamy, and ready in a flash.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs, cubed
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp fenugreek leaves
• 1 tbsp tandoori masala
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in yogurt and tandoori masala for 10 minutes (or skip if short on time).
2. Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt butter. Add tomato paste and fenugreek leaves.
3. Add marinated chicken and cook for 8 minutes on high pressure.
4. Release pressure, stir in cream, and serve.

Tip: Serve with garlic naan for an authentic touch.

5. 5-Ingredient Yogurt Chicken Curry

Short on ingredients? This yogurt-based curry is simple yet flavorful, with minimal prep and maximum taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pot and brown the drumsticks on all sides.
2. Add onions and cook until soft.
3. Mix yogurt with curry powder and pour over chicken.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is tender.

Variation: Add a squeeze of lemon for a tangy kick.

With these quick and easy chicken curry recipes, busy weeknights no longer have to mean boring meals. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy coconut, tangy tomato, or fragrant Thai flavors, there’s a curry here to satisfy every craving. Best of all,