Chinese Chicken Curry Recipe

Chinese chicken curry is a delightful blend of tender chicken pieces, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices cooked in a rich, flavorful curry sauce. This recipe combines the bold flavors of Chinese cooking with the comforting warmth of curry, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Curry

For the Chicken:

500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Curry Sauce:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, finely grated
1 medium onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned
2 tablespoons curry powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup coconut milk (optional, for a creamy texture)
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt to taste

For Garnish:

Spring onions, finely chopped
Sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make Chinese Chicken Curry

Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Mix well and let it sit for 20–30 minutes to absorb the flavors. While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables by slicing the onions, bell peppers, and carrots, and keep them ready for stir-frying.

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry it until it is lightly browned and cooked through, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil, then sauté the garlic and ginger until they release a fragrant aroma. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and carrots, and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but retain their crispness.

Next, stir in the curry powder and turmeric, cooking for a minute to enhance the aroma of the spices. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken stock, and coconut milk (if using), mixing well to create a flavorful curry sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, ensuring it is well-coated with the sauce. Let the curry simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Adjust the seasoning with salt and sugar to suit your taste.

Finally, transfer the curry to a serving dish and garnish it with finely chopped spring onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles for a satisfying and aromatic meal.