Easy Chicken Kofta Curry Recipe – A Flavorful Indian Delicacy

Chicken Kofta Curry is a rich and aromatic dish featuring tender chicken meatballs simmered in a spiced, creamy curry. Perfect for a family meal or special occasions, this recipe pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Ingredients

For the Koftas (Chicken Meatballs):

• 500g minced chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp roasted gram flour
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp chaat masala
• 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

For the Curry:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, blended into a paste
• 2 tomatoes, blended
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 3 cloves
• 3 green cardamoms
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• 1/2 cup yogurt, whisked
• 1 cup water (adjust for consistency)
• Fresh cream (optional, for more richness)
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Koftas

1. In a mixing bowl, combine minced chicken, chopped onion, ginger-garlic paste, green chili (if using), roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, black pepper powder, chaat masala, coriander powder, salt, and chopped coriander leaves.
2. Add the gram flour and mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small, smooth meatballs and set aside.

2. Prepare the Curry Base

1. Heat oil in a deep pan. Add cumin seeds, cloves, green cardamoms, and bay leaf. Let them splutter.
2. Add onion paste and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
4. Add blended tomatoes and cook until the mixture becomes soft and the oil starts to separate.
5. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.

3. Cook the Curry

1. Lower the heat and add whisked yogurt to the pan, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
2. Add water to adjust the consistency of the curry and bring it to a gentle boil.

4. Cook the Koftas

1. Gently add the chicken meatballs to the simmering curry, ensuring they do not break. If using, add fresh cream for a richer taste.
2. Cover the pan and let the koftas cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Avoid stirring too much to prevent the koftas from breaking.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Tips

• Use fresh minced chicken to ensure tender and juicy koftas.
• Fry or shallow-fry the meatballs lightly before adding to the curry for added firmness and flavor.
• Adjust the spice level to your preference by varying the amount of red chili powder and green chilies.

Nutrition Chart for Chicken Kofta Curry (per serving, approximately 4 servings)

• Calories —————— 280 kcal
• Total Fat —————— 12 g
• Cholesterol ————— 100 mg
• Sodium ——————– 350 mg
• Total Carbohydrates — 10 g
• Protein ——————— 30 g
• Sugar ———————— 3 g
• Fiber ———————— 2 g

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and cooking methods.