Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Madras is a flavorful, spicy curry that combines tender chicken with a rich, fragrant sauce. Made with aromatic spices, tomatoes, and a touch of heat, this dish is perfect for anyone who loves a bit of spice. Serve it with rice or naan for a satisfying, comforting meal that’s sure to please.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

1. Bold, Spicy Flavors: This curry has a rich, spicy kick that’s well-balanced with a hint of tang from the tomatoes.
2. Easy to Customize: You can adjust the heat level to suit your taste.
3. Perfect for batch cooking: Madras curry is kept well, making it great for meal prep.
4. One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup simple.
5. Comforting and Satisfying: It’s a hearty, warming dish ideal for cozy dinners.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Madras?

Chicken Madras is a spicy Indian-inspired curry made with a blend of spices, tomatoes, and tender pieces of chicken. This popular dish is known for its deep red color and bold, spicy flavor, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras Ingredients

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 1-2 fresh green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Madras curry powder (or hot curry powder)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 200ml coconut milk or water (for a creamier sauce, use coconut milk)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Marrow Soup
• Jamie Oliver Salmon Risotto
• Jamie Oliver Mushroom Stroganoff

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras

1. Heat the Oil and Cook the Aromatics

• In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden and soft.

2. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Chilies

• Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

3. Add the Spices

• Stir in the Madras curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas.

4. Add the Chicken

• Add the chicken thigh pieces to the pot, stirring well to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides.

5. Add Tomatoes and Simmer

• Pour in the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

6. Add Coconut Milk and Simmer Further

• Pour in the coconut milk (or water, if you prefer a thinner sauce) and stir well. Let the curry simmer gently for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or your favorite side.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras

1. Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the spicy sauce.
2. Naan Bread: Soft, warm naan is ideal for scooping up the curry.
3. Raita: A cooling cucumber or mint raita helps balance the heat of the madras.
4. Poppadoms: Crispy poppadoms add a lovely texture contrast.
5. Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber and tomato salad provides a fresh side.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras

1. Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spice by adding more or less chili powder and green chilies based on your preference.
2. Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the curry to simmer helps the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
3. Use Chicken Thighs for Tenderness: Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, but you can use chicken breasts if preferred.
4. Bloom the Spices: Cooking the spices before adding liquid releases their full aroma and flavor.
5. Add Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the curry before serving for a tangy contrast.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras

1. Vegetable Madras: Replace chicken with mixed vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, and cauliflower for a vegetarian version.
2. Chicken and Spinach Madras: Add fresh spinach towards the end for a nutritious twist.
3. Creamy Madras: Stir in a bit of yogurt or extra coconut milk for a milder, creamier curry.
4. Lentil and Chicken Madras: Add cooked lentils for added texture and protein.
5. Paneer Madras: Substitute paneer cubes for chicken to make a flavorful vegetarian option.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras?

• Refrigerate: Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later: Chicken Madras freezes well. Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Madras?

1. Stovetop Reheat: Reheat the curry in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
2. Microwave Option: For individual portions, microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

How can I make chicken Madras less spicy?

To make chicken Madras less spicy, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the fresh green chilies. You can also add extra coconut milk or a spoonful of yogurt to help mellow the heat.

Can I make chicken Madras with chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used instead of thighs. However, be mindful not to overcook it, as chicken breast can dry out more quickly. Cut the breast into bite-sized pieces and simmer gently to keep it tender.

What is the best way to thicken chicken Madras curry?

To thicken chicken Madras curry, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes until the sauce reduces to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of tomato paste to help thicken and intensify the flavor.

Can I freeze leftover chicken Madras?

Yes, chicken Madras freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Madras is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their curry. With tender chicken and a spicy, fragrant sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. Serve it with rice, naan, or your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious homemade curry with loved ones.

More Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Fish Pie

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