Chicken and Chickpea Curry Recipe – A Hearty, Healthy Dish

How to Make the Perfect Chicken and Chickpea Curry at Home 

What happens when tender chicken meets hearty chickpeas in a creamy, spiced curry sauce? You get a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also loaded with nutrition. If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that combines taste, health benefits, and cultural richness, you’re in the right place.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through making a delicious chicken and chickpea curry, while also exploring variations to suit various lifestyles—vegan, gluten-free, you name it. 

By the end of this recipe, you’ll have a hearty, nutritious meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive serving for guests. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in tips to elevate your curry game to the next level! 

Why Chicken and Chickpeas Are a Power Couple 

Chicken is a well-loved protein, rich in vitamins and minerals like B6, which can enhance brain health, and selenium, which boosts your immune system. Pair that with chickpeas—a plant-based protein powerhouse brimming with fiber, folate, and antioxidants—and you’ve got a dish that’s deliciously balanced.

Chickpeas are also known to improve digestion, support heart health, and keep you feeling fuller for longer—making this curry not just flavorful but also functional. 

Curry’s Cultural Tapestry 

Curry has woven its way into culinary traditions across the globe—from the comforting butter chicken of Northern India to the fragrant Thai green curry and even the vibrant Jamaican curries. Its ability to adapt across cultures is part of what makes it so magical.

This chicken and chickpea curry pays homage to its Indian roots while remaining versatile for any kitchen. 

Whether you’re new to cooking curries or a seasoned pro, this recipe will fast-track you to a dish that delivers bold yet balanced flavors. 

How to Make Chicken and Chickpea Curry (Step-by-Step Guide) 

Grab your apron! Here’s how you can whip up this satisfying curry in under 45 minutes. 

Ingredients You’ll Need 

You’ll want to gather these fresh, fragrant ingredients. (Pro tip: Most of these are pantry staples for curry lovers!) 

Main Ingredients: 

• 2 medium chicken breasts, diced 
• 1 can (15oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped 
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped or 1 can of crushed tomatoes 
• 1 cup coconut milk (or use yogurt for a lighter option) 

Spices: 

• 2 tsp curry powder 
• 1 tsp ground cumin 
• 1/2 tsp turmeric 
• 1/2 tsp paprika 
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice lovers) 
• 1 tsp garam masala 
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Others: 

• 1 tbsp olive oil or ghee 
• Fresh cilantro for garnish 
• Squeeze of fresh lime juice 

Step 1: Prep Your Aromatics 

Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add olive oil or ghee. Sauté the chopped onions until golden brown, then toss in the garlic and ginger. Your kitchen should smell amazing by now! 

Step 2: Bloom the Spices 

Add your spice mix—curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne (if using)—into the skillet. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices, releasing their aromas without burning them. 

Step 3: Cook the Chicken 

Increase the heat slightly and toss in the diced chicken. Sear until it’s lightly browned on all sides but not yet fully cooked; this seals in the juices. 

Step 4: Introduce Chickpeas and Tomatoes 

Add the chickpeas and tomatoes into the pan. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes. 

Step 5: Make the Sauce Creamy 

Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to create a smooth, luscious sauce. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes on low heat until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together. 

Step 6: Garnish and Serve 

Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, add a dash of garam masala for that warm finishing note, and a squeeze of lime for a tangy lift. 

Serve over fluffy basmati rice, with naan bread, or even on its own as a hearty stew! 

Read more: Easy Black Bean and Turkey Chili | Perfect for Cold Nights

Dietary Variations 

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! 

• Vegan-Friendly: Swap chicken for hearty vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potato. 
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your spices are gluten-free and serve with a GF grain like quinoa. 
• Low Fat: Use light coconut milk or plain Greek yogurt in place of full-fat coconut milk. 

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients 

1. Curry Spices: Not just for flavor—turmeric and cumin are both anti-inflammatory, supporting brain and joint health. 
2. Chickpeas: High in protein and gut-healthy fiber. 
3. Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess while providing healthy fats for sustained energy. 

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Tips to Take Your Curry to the Next Level 

• Toast the Spices: To get the fullest flavor, toast your spices before mixing them into the dish. 
• Add Depth with Stock: Replace half the coconut milk with chicken or vegetable stock for an extra layer of flavor. 
• Experiment with Accompaniments: Pair the curry with mango chutney or a dollop of spiced yogurt for added complexity. 

For more tips and recipes like this, we highly recommend The Fat Burning Cookbook. This  cookbook is packed with vibrant, easy-to-follow dishes that celebrate the heartwarming world of curries. 

A Dish Worth Sharing 

This chicken and chickpea curry is for everyone—from beginner home cooks to seasoned foodies. With its robust flavors, vibrant spices, and undeniable health benefits, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. 

Excited to try it? We’d love to hear how yours turns out! Share your photos and tag us on social media. And don’t forget to check out The Fat Burning Cookbook.—it’s a gem for curry lovers and beyond!