CHICKEN AND APPLE CURRY

Chicken and Apple Curry is a unique, sweet, and savory dish that combines tender chicken with the natural sweetness of apples, all simmered in a fragrant, mildly spiced curry sauce. The apples add a subtle fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices, making this dish both comforting and full of depth. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy fall meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or any firm apple), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer option)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked basmati rice or naan bread for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft and golden. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the spices: Sprinkle the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the onions. Stir well to coat the onions in the spices, cooking for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and bring out their flavor.
4. Add the apples and chicken: Add the diced apples to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion and spice mixture. Return the browned chicken to the skillet.
5. Simmer the curry: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, the apples are tender, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Finish the curry: Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste. Let the curry cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Serve: Garnish the Chicken and Apple Curry with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

This Chicken and Apple Curry is a delicious, mild curry that offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s great for a cozy dinner, especially during fall when apples are in season!