Active Time

　　22 minutes

　　Total Time

　　22 minutes

　　This 22-minute South Indian-inspired chicken dinner is based on takeout versions served at Manhattan's Curry Row. Using store-bought curry powder is an ingredient reducing shortcut that makes the already quick-cooking dish even faster. The tarka-like mustard-flecked cashew topping adds a final dose of flavor and crunch.

　　

Ingredients

Serves 4

　　2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 4 breasts or 7 thighs), cut into 1" cubes

　　2½ teaspoons mild curry powder

　　1½ teaspoons kosher salt

　　½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

　　2 tablespoons virgin coconut or vegetable oil (plus 2 teaspoons; optional)

　　½ medium onion, chopped

　　1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk (preferably full-fat)

　　1 (2½") piece ginger, peeled

　　4 garlic cloves, peeled

　　¼ cup raw cashews, chopped (optional)

　　1½ teaspoons yellow and/or black mustard seeds (optional)

　　5 ounces baby spinach

　　Cilantro leaves with tender stems and cooked rice or naan (Indian flatbread; for serving)

　　

Step 1

Toss chicken with curry powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.

　　

Step 2

Heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a large skillet (at least 12" in diameter) over medium-high. Add onion and cook, stirring, until softened, about 2 minutes.

　　

Step 3

Purée coconut milk, ginger, and garlic in a blender until very smooth.

　　

Step 4

Add chicken and coconut milk mixture to skillet and cook, tossing occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened, 7-10 minutes.

　　

Step 5

Meanwhile, if using, heat 2 tsp. oil in a small skillet over medium. Add cashews and mustard seeds and cook, stirring, until fragrant and lightly browned, 2–3 minutes. Immediately transfer mixture including the oil to a small bowl.

　　

Step 6

Fold spinach into chicken mixture and cook until wilted, about 1 minute. Divide among 4 bowls. Top with cilantro and cashew mixture, if using. Serve with rice or naan alongside.

　　

Step 7

Editor's note: This article has been updated as a part of our archive repair project.