I gotta say…thefirst bite of this Ina Garten chicken curry delivers everything you’d expect from a well-balanced dish—warm spices, a rich sauce, and tender chicken!
Cooking the onions until they’re deeply golden makes all the difference in the final result. Underdo them, and you’ll miss out on a lot of the depth they bring.
I make sure my curry powder hits the hot pan before any liquids go in to bring out the best of this spice.
Another tip? Add a handful of chopped cilantro at the end to bring extra freshness that ties everything together.
I always pair this with basmati rice, but a piece of warm naan on the side never hurts!
How to Make Ina Garten Chicken Curry
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken Breasts
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Curry Powder
- 1 Onion (diced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Coconut Milk
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 2:
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Rub them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3:
Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes. While the chicken cooks, prepare the curry sauce.
Step 4:
In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the curry powder and stir for another minute.
Step 5:
Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Simmer the sauce until thickened. Combine with the baked chicken in the skillet.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Spices
Always use freshly ground spices for a more potent flavor for this dish.
Fresh curry powder can make a significant difference in the aroma and taste!
Adjust the Spice Level
Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less curry powder.
You might want to test a small amount before going all in, especially if you’re sensitive to heat.
Incorporate Vegetables
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added texture and nutrients.
They not only make the dish more colorful but also complement the flavors well.
Check Chicken for Doneness
Make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking for clear juices.
If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the Sauce Thicken
Don’t rush the sauce thickening step.
Letting the sauce reduce properly will enhance the flavors and create a sumptuous texture that coats the chicken beautifully.
What to Serve with Ina Garten Curry Chicken Recipe
Pita Bread
Pita bread is a classic companion for curry chicken salad, offering a soft and chewy contrast to the dish.
Cut the pita into wedges and serve them alongside to scoop up the salad easily.
The mild flavor of the bread pairs exceptionally well without overpowering the curry spices.
Cucumber Slices
Cucumber slices provide a refreshing, crisp texture that complements the creamy chicken curry salad perfectly.
You can arrange them around the dish for a clean presentation.
These slices are an excellent choice if you want something light and fresh on the side.
Mixed Greens
Serving the curry chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens like arugula, spinach, or romaine adds a healthy option.
The greens offer a subtle bitterness that can balance the sauce’s richness in the salad.
A quick toss of olive oil and lemon juice can enhance the salad’s flavor profile.
Grilled Eggplant
Grilled eggplant brings in a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that works unexpectedly well with curry chicken.
Its tender texture adds a great contrast to the salad.
Toasted Naan Chips
For a fun twist, serve the curry chicken salad with toasted naan chips.
These crispy chips add crunch and can be seasoned with a touch of garlic for added flavor.
They’re perfect for dipping and add an exciting textural element to the meal.
Mango Chutney
Adding mango chutney can introduce a nice sweetness and a hint of spice to your plate.
Spoon some on the side for those who love a fruity kick.
This side is perfect for creating a more complex flavor experience with the chicken curry salad.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Alternatives
You’ll find that replacing chicken with turkey or tofu provides a unique taste and makes the dish suitable for varied preferences.
Spice Level Adjustment
Switching out Madras curry powder with a milder blend can adjust the heat level to match your comfort.
Non-Alcoholic Wine Substitute
Substitute the dry white wine in the recipe with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a non-alcoholic option.
Vegetarian Additions
Feel free to include chickpeas or lentils to add a hearty texture and make it perfect for vegetarians.
Herb Enhancements
Choosing fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley over dried ones can intensify the flavor, providing a fresh aroma and taste you’ll appreciate.
Creaminess and Sweetness
Adding a bit of coconut milk can lend a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spices.
Vegetable Variations
Trying different vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, introduces new textures and complements the curry flavors.
How to Store Leftover Ina Garten Chicken Curry
Easy Storage
Put your leftover Ina Garten chicken curry in an airtight container right after cooking.
This helps maintain not only the flavor but also the freshness.
When you store it immediately, it keeps the dish safe from bacteria, which is important for later enjoyment.
Refrigerator Storage
Place your sealed container in the refrigerator if you plan to eat the leftovers within the next few days.
Chicken curry can generally be kept fresh like this for up to three days.
This method is fantastic if you’re planning to have a quick meal ready anytime soon.
Freezer Storage
If you won’t eat the leftovers soon, think about freezing them.
Use a freezer-safe container to protect against freezer burn.
You’ll love how your dish stays good in the freezer for up to three months, preserving both taste and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Neglecting the Marination
One mistake you want to avoid is skipping the marination process for your chicken.
Marination ensures the chicken absorbs the flavors deeply, enhancing the taste.
Ignoring Spice Balance
Pay attention to the balance of spices because overpowering one spice can ruin the dish.
Use spices in moderation, especially if you’re adapting from different recipes.
Overcooking the Chicken
Overcooking can make your chicken tough and dry, which isn’t great for curries.
Ensure you’re checking the doneness to keep it juicy and tender.

Ina Garten Chicken Curry Recipe
- 2 lbs Chicken Breasts
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Curry Powder
- 1 Onion diced
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Coconut Milk
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Rub them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes. While the chicken cooks, prepare the curry sauce.
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the curry powder and stir for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Simmer the sauce until thickened. Combine with the baked chicken in the skillet.
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