I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s leftover chicken curry. I had a few bits of roasted chicken in the fridge and, like most of us, I was stuck in the "what to make" rut. The usual go-to was a simple sandwich or stir-fry, but nothing really stood out. Then I came across Jamie’s recipe for leftover chicken curry, and it completely changed the way I viewed leftovers.
This dish is a game-changer. It’s packed with flavor, rich with spices, and so easy to whip up. Plus, it’s a perfect way to give a second life to leftover chicken. The best part? It’s incredibly flexible. You can adjust the spices, add or remove ingredients, and it still turns out amazing every time. So if you’re tired of your standard leftover recipes and want something that brings comfort and a punch of flavor, this curry is the way to go.
Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Chicken Curry Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s leftover chicken curry is the definition of a ’dump everything in and let it cook’ recipe. There’s no need for fancy techniques, just straightforward ingredients and simple steps. What really draws me to this recipe is how Jamie effortlessly balances the heat from the spices and the sweetness from the tomatoes. It’s not just another curry; it’s a celebration of leftovers.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients are all things you probably have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s a breakdown:
- Leftover chicken (shredded or chopped)
- Olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- Onions (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Ginger (fresh and grated)
-
Spices
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Ground turmeric
- Ground cinnamon
- Chili powder (to taste)
- Garam masala (this really brings the curry to life)
- Tomato paste (for a deep, rich flavor)
- Canned chopped tomatoes (or fresh if you’re feeling fancy)
- Coconut milk (adds that creamy texture)
- Fresh coriander (for garnish)
- Lemon (a squeeze for a fresh finish)
The beauty of this recipe is that you can switch up or add ingredients based on what you have. Don’t have coconut milk? You can use regular cream or yogurt. It’s all about making it your own!
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Chicken Curry
Making the curry is a simple, hands-off process. Here’s how you do it:
- Prep the chicken: If your chicken isn’t shredded already, do so now. You can use roast, grilled, or even boiled chicken. It doesn’t matter as long as it’s cooked.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat up your oil in a large pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden brown. This will form the base flavor of your curry. Next, add garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Add the spices: This is where the magic happens. Toss in cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and chili powder. Stir the spices around for 2-3 minutes. You’ll start to smell that incredible curry fragrance filling the air.
- Tomatoes and coconut milk: Add the tomato paste and canned chopped tomatoes. Let this simmer down and break apart. Once everything starts to thicken up, add the coconut milk and stir well. The sauce should become rich and creamy.
- Chicken time: Now, throw in the leftover chicken. Mix it into the curry sauce. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to ensure the chicken absorbs all the flavors.
- Finish it off: Season to taste with salt and pepper. Just before serving, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped coriander.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s dive into the science of a few key ingredients in this dish:
- Chicken: Leftover chicken works best in this recipe because it’s already cooked, making it perfect for soaking up all those vibrant flavors in the curry. The meat becomes tender as it absorbs the sauce, enhancing its flavor without overcooking.
- Spices: The spices used-cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and garam masala-each bring something unique. Cumin provides a warm, earthy base, while coriander adds a bit of citrusy brightness. Turmeric is packed with anti-inflammatory properties and gives the curry its signature golden color. Cinnamon brings a sweet undertone, and garam masala balances everything out with its complex blend of spices.
- Coconut Milk: The fat in coconut milk adds creaminess to the curry while neutralizing the heat from the spices. It also has lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties and can boost your immune system.
Expert Tips
If you want to elevate this curry even more, here are a few pro tips:
- Use bone-in chicken: If you’re not using leftovers, bone-in chicken is ideal. The bones release collagen, which thickens the sauce naturally and adds richness.
- Adjust the heat: If you like a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder or toss in a chopped fresh chili. But if you’re not into heat, you can always dial it down.
- Texture matters: To add a bit of texture to the curry, try adding a handful of roasted nuts like cashews or almonds. They’ll give it a nice crunch.
- Slow cook for deeper flavors: If you have time, let the curry simmer on low heat for longer (30-40 minutes). This will deepen the flavors and make the sauce even more luscious.
Recipe Variations
You can get creative with this curry! Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian version: Swap out the chicken for chickpeas, potatoes, or even cauliflower. This will still provide a hearty meal without the meat.
- Add greens: Spinach, kale, or even peas are great additions. Toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use yogurt: If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, replace it with plain yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Add fruits: Adding pineapple or raisins can create a wonderful balance of sweet and savory, giving your curry a unique flavor profile.
Final Words
This recipe is a reminder that cooking doesn’t always have to be complex. Sometimes, the best meals come from what you already have on hand. Jamie’s leftover chicken curry is an incredibly forgiving dish, making it the perfect go-to for busy nights or when you’re looking to avoid food waste. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and will have your kitchen smelling amazing.
FAQs
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Chicken Curry?
Start by frying onions, garlic, and ginger in oil. Add curry powder, leftover chicken, and coconut milk. Simmer for 10-15 minutes and serve with rice or naan.
Can I Use Any Leftover Chicken For This Recipe?
Yes, any cooked chicken will work. Shredded or chopped pieces will mix well with the curry sauce.
What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Chicken Curry?
It’s great with rice, naan, or even a simple salad to balance the flavors.