Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe

Table of Contents

The Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe is a flavorful and versatile dish with potential health benefits. This traditional recipe originates from Afghanistan and is known for its rich blend of spices and tender chicken pieces.

The recipe for Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe typically involves marinating chicken pieces in yogurt and a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and ginger. This step adds depth and complexity to the flavors. After marinating, the chicken is cooked in a flavorful sauce made from onions, tomatoes, garlic, and more spices. The dish is usually served with rice or flatbread, making it a satisfying and hearty meal.

Want more ideas to round-out your Recipe Box from Africa?
A lot of great options are in these posts!

11 Seychelles Recipes To Create At Home

One of the notable features of the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe is its versatility. Cooks can adjust the spiciness level by varying the amount of chili or other spices used. Additionally, some variations of the dish include the addition of vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers, enhancing both the taste and nutritional content.

Speaking of health benefits, this dish can be nutritious when prepared with the right ingredients. Chicken is a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The spices used in the recipe, such as turmeric and ginger, have potential anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic, another ingredient commonly found in the dish, may have heart-healthy benefits.

The use of yogurt in the marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also provides probiotics, which can promote a healthy gut. Tomatoes, a key ingredient in the sauce, are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that support overall health.

You May Want to Join The World Recipes With Our Big Escape

Share your own recipes in our Facebook Group. Find recipes from all over the world. Learn more about International Cuisine and how you can surprise your family with new and exciting foods from all over the world.

For More Photos Visit Our Instagram at World Recipes Daily

It is important to note that the nutritional benefits of an Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe can vary depending on the specific recipe and cooking methods used. For a healthier version, using lean chicken cuts, minimizing added fats, and opting for whole ingredients can further enhance its nutritional profile.

The Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe is a delicious and flexible dish with potential health benefits. Its rich flavors and adaptability make it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal. As with any recipe, it is essential to focus on using wholesome ingredients and moderation to fully appreciate the potential health advantages of this flavorful dish.

How To Make Our Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings)

Sauce

2 small onion
1 ½ inch ginger
5 garlic cloves
2 green chilies
2 tbsp coriander
1/2 tbsp lime juice
1/2 tbsp Lemon Juice
3 tbsp water

Chicken

1 lb chicken thighs
15 Cashews
1 tsp salt
¾ tsp pepper
½ tsp garam masala
¾ tsp dried fenugreek
¼ tsp chaat masala
¼ cup plain yogurt

Gravy Base

3 tbsp cooking oil
2 tbsp blended sauce
1/4 cup cream

Instructions

1. Finely chop the small onions and set them aside. Peel and grate the 1 ½ inch ginger, mince the 5 garlic cloves, and finely chop the 2 green chilies. Combine them all in a bowl.

a. Chop the onions into small pieces.
b. Grate the ginger using a grater.
c. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
d. Finely chop the green chilies.
e. Mix all these ingredients together in a bowl.

2. Blend the coriander, lime juice, lemon juice, and water until you get a smooth sauce.

a. Measure 2 tablespoons of coriander leaves.
b. Add the coriander, ½ tablespoon lime juice, ½ tablespoon lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons of water to a blender.
c. Blend until you achieve a smooth sauce consistency.

3. Marinate the chicken thighs. In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with cashews, salt, pepper, garam masala, dried fenugreek, chaat masala, and plain yogurt.

a. Measure 1 pound of chicken thighs.
b. Place the chicken thighs in a mixing bowl.
c. Add 15 cashews to the bowl with the chicken.
d. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt, ¾ teaspoon of pepper, ½ teaspoon of garam masala, ¾ teaspoon of dried fenugreek, and ¼ teaspoon of chaat masala over the chicken.
e. Add ¼ cup of plain yogurt to the bowl.
f. Mix all the ingredients together to ensure the chicken is well coated with the marinade.

4. Heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.

a. Measure 3 tablespoons of cooking oil.
b. Heat the oil in a pan on the stove over medium heat.

5. Add the blended sauce to the heated oil and cook for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.

a. Pour 2 tablespoons of the blended sauce into the heated oil.
b. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the raw smell of the sauce disappears.

6. Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until it is tender and fully cooked.

a. Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs into the pan with the sauce.
b. Cook the chicken on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and thoroughly cooked.

7. Lower the heat, and stir in 1/4 cup of cream to create a creamy and rich gravy.

a. Reduce the heat to low.
b. Pour 1/4 cup of cream into the pan.
c. Stir the cream into the chicken and sauce to create a creamy gravy.

8. Let the Afghani Chicken Curry simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

a. Allow the chicken curry to simmer on low heat for a few more minutes.

Estimated Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Best Way to Store Leftovers From Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe

2. Use shallow containers to cool down leftovers quickly.
3. Label containers with the date for easy identification.
4. Store in the refrigerator within two hours after cooking.
5. Consume leftover Afghani Chicken Curry within 3-4 days.
6. To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave until hot.
7. Do not let leftovers sit at room temperature for too long.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

Marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for better flavor.
Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing green chilies.
Use Greek yogurt for a creamier and tangier taste.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a vibrant touch.
Experiment with different vegetables for added texture.
Substitute cashews with almonds or peanuts for variation.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even cooking.

Side Dishes and Desserts Forthe Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe

Naan or Roti bread for a traditional pairing.
Basmati rice for a classic combination.
Cucumber Raita for a refreshing contrast.
A simple green salad with cucumber and tomatoes.
Pickled onions for tangy and crunchy bites.
Sauteed spinach with garlic for a nutritious option.
Saffron rice for a fragrant and colorful accompaniment.

How To Serve the Cuban Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe

Transfer the prepared curry to a serving bowl.
Garnish with a sprinkle of garam masala for aroma.
Place the side dishes on separate serving plates.
Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.
Allow guests to help themselves to their desired portion.
Enjoy the flavors of this delightful Afghani dish together.
Refrigerate any leftovers following the storage instructions.

Dietary Substitution For the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe

1. Vegan Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Substitute chicken with firm tofu.
b. Replace yogurt with dairy-free yogurt alternative.
c. Use plant-based cream instead of regular cream.
d. Swap ghee with coconut oil for frying.
e. Omit the cashews or use roasted chickpeas for crunch.

2. Gluten-Free Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Ensure all spices used are gluten-free certified.
b. Use gluten-free tamari sauce in place of regular soy sauce.
c. Replace garam masala with a gluten-free blend.
d. Use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour as a thickener.
e. Serve the curry with gluten-free naan or rice.

3. Vegetarian Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Substitute chicken with paneer (Indian cheese..
b. Replace chicken with mixed vegetables like potatoes and carrots.
c. Use tempeh or seitan instead of chicken thighs.
d. Omit the cashews or use roasted peanuts for texture.
e. Add boiled eggs to the curry for a vegetarian twist.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Use lean chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs.
b. Replace the cream with Greek yogurt.
c. Serve the curry with a side of Mediterranean couscous.
d. Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for added Mediterranean flavor.
e. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish as a garnish.

5. Keto Diet Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Replace onions with shallots to reduce carb content.
b. Use coconut aminos instead of lime and lemon juice.
c. Replace cashews with pine nuts or almonds.
d. Use ghee instead of cooking oil for a higher fat content.
e. Serve the curry with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

6. Heart-Healthy Diet Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Choose skinless chicken thighs to reduce saturated fat.
b. Use olive oil instead of cooking oil for healthier fats.
c. Replace cream with low-fat coconut milk or almond milk.
d. Add more garlic and ginger for heart-healthy benefits.
e. Serve the curry with a side of steamed broccoli.

7. Paleo Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Replace cooking oil with avocado oil for a paleo-friendly option.
b. Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
c. Omit the yogurt or use coconut yogurt as a substitute.
d. Replace cashews with sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds.
e. Serve the curry with a side of zucchini noodles.

8. Low Carb Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken thighs.
b. Replace cashews with macadamia nuts for a low carb option.
c. Use coconut cream instead of regular cream.
d. Omit the lime and lemon juice to reduce carb content.
e. Serve the curry with a side of sautéed spinach.

9. Whole30 Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Ensure all spices used are Whole30 compliant.
b. Use ghee instead of cooking oil for a Whole30-friendly fat.
c. Replace cream with coconut cream or coconut milk.
d. Omit the chaat masala and use compliant spices.
e. Serve the curry with cauliflower rice or sweet potato noodles.

10. Weight Watchers Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Use lean chicken breast for lower points.
b. Substitute cashews with roasted chickpeas for fewer points.
c. Replace cream with non-fat Greek yogurt.
d. Omit or reduce the amount of ghee to save points.
e. Serve the curry with a side of steamed vegetables.

11. Low Fat Options for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs.
b. Replace cashews with chopped almonds for less fat.
c. Use non-fat yogurt instead of regular yogurt.
d. Omit the ghee and use cooking spray for frying.
e. Serve the curry with a side of mixed greens.

12. Vegetable Variations for the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe:

a. Use cauliflower florets and potatoes instead of chicken.
b. Substitute cashews with roasted pumpkin seeds.
c. Add bell peppers and peas for more vegetables.
d. Incorporate baby spinach for added nutrition.
e. Serve the curry with a side of sautéed zucchini.

Please note that the given substitutions are general suggestions, and individual dietary needs and preferences may vary. It’s always recommended to check labels, choose quality ingredients, and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

FAQ About the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe

What is the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe?
The Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that originates from Afghanistan. It features tender chicken thighs marinated in a mix of spices and yogurt, cooked in a rich gravy base with onions, tomatoes, and cream.

How do I store leftovers from Afghani Chicken Curry?
To store leftovers from Afghani Chicken Curry, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Label the containers with the date and consume the leftovers within 3-4 days. When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave until hot.

Can I make a vegan version of the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe?
Yes, you can! To make a vegan version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or plant-based proteins like tempeh or seitan. Replace the yogurt with dairy-free yogurt alternatives, and use coconut cream instead of regular cream.

Is the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
With some adjustments, it can be gluten-free. Ensure all the spices used are gluten-free certified, and use gluten-free tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. You can also thicken the gravy with chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I follow a low-carb diet and enjoy the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe?
Absolutely! For a low-carb version, replace the chicken with cauliflower florets or other low-carb vegetables. Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, and substitute cashews with nuts like macadamia or sliced almonds.

Final Thoughts

The Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe is a flavorful and versatile dish that I recently tried. The combination of tender chicken thighs marinated in a mix of spices and yogurt, cooked in a rich gravy base with onions, tomatoes, and cream, creates a delightful taste experience. The dish’s distinctive blend of coriander, ginger, garlic, and green chilies adds depth to the flavors.

One of the things I appreciated about this recipe is its adaptability. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, and it can be made suitable for various dietary needs. For example, by substituting chicken with tofu or vegetables, you can make it vegan or vegetarian-friendly. Additionally, for those following gluten-free, low-carb, or keto diets, simple modifications can be made to accommodate their requirements.

From a nutritional perspective, the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe offers several benefits. The lean protein from chicken is essential for muscle growth and repair, while the spices like turmeric and ginger may have anti-inflammatory properties. The inclusion of yogurt provides probiotics for a healthy gut, and tomatoes offer vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.

Overall, the Afghani Chicken Curry Recipe is a delicious and nourishing dish that can easily become a family favorite. Its bold flavors, adaptability, and potential health benefits make it a standout choice for those seeking a satisfying and wholesome meal.