ucalorie If you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of sweet and spicy, this Mango Chicken Curry Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tropical mango goodness and aromatic Indian spices, this vibrant dish offers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Whether you’re cooking a comforting weekday dinner or hosting a weekend get-together, this curry is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every time.
One of the best things about this Mango Chicken Curry Recipe is how effortlessly it combines bold flavors into a cohesive, mouthwatering dish. Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize the spice level, adjust the sweetness, or even swap out the protein to suit your taste. Furthermore, the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes complements the savory spices so beautifully that even curry skeptics won’t be able to resist a second helping.
Whether it’s served with a warm bowl of steamed rice, fluffy naan, or even over quinoa for a healthier twist, this mango chicken curry never fails to hit the spot. It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. In fact, you might find yourself skipping takeout altogether!
Preparation Time for Mango Chicken Curry Recipe
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 35 minutes
- Marination (optional): 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients for Mango Chicken Curry Recipe
For the Chicken Marinade:
- Boneless Chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces) – 500g (~825 calories)
- Yogurt – 1/2 cup (~75 calories)
- Turmeric Powder – 1/2 teaspoon (~4 calories)
- Red Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon (~6 calories)
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon (~0 calories)
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (~4 calories)
For the Curry Base:
- Ripe Mango (pulp or chunks) – 1 cup (~107 calories)
- Onion (finely chopped) – 1 medium (~44 calories)
- Tomato (pureed or chopped) – 1 large (~33 calories)
- Ginger-Garlic Paste – 1 tablespoon (~15 calories)
- Green Chili – 1 (optional, chopped) (~6 calories)
- Coconut Milk – 1 cup (~445 calories)
- Oil (vegetable or coconut) – 2 tablespoons (~240 calories)
- Fresh Cream (optional, for richness) – 2 tablespoons (~104 calories)
Spices:
- Garam Masala – 1 teaspoon (~8 calories)
- Cumin Powder – 1 teaspoon (~8 calories)
- Coriander Powder – 1.5 teaspoons (~10 calories)
- Salt – to taste (~0 calories)
- Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon (~3 calories)
- Fresh Cilantro – for garnish (~2 calories)
Instructions: How to Make Mango Chicken Curry
1: Marinate the Chicken
Mix the Marinade:
First, in a large bowl, combine yogurt, turmeric, red chili powder, lemon juice, and salt. Then, add in the chicken pieces and toss well until each piece is thoroughly coated.
Let It Rest:
Although optional, allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness. You can even refrigerate it overnight for deeper infusion.
2: Prepare the Curry Base
Heat the Oil:
Next, in a deep pan or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium flame. Coconut oil adds a distinct flavor, but vegetable oil works perfectly too.
Sauté Onions:
Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onions. Cook them until golden brown—this step is crucial for developing the base flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add Aromatics:
Now, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chili. Sauté until the raw smell disappears, which takes about 2–3 minutes.
Incorporate Tomatoes:
Afterward, add the chopped or pureed tomato. Cook it down until the mixture turns thick and the oil begins to separate. This forms a rich, flavorful base for your curry.
3: Cook the Chicken
Add the Marinated Chicken:
At this point, add the marinated chicken pieces into the pan. Sauté on medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes to seal in the juices.
Spice It Up:
Now’s the time to add the dry spices—cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well so the chicken absorbs all those warm, fragrant flavors.
Cover and Cook:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally and cook until the chicken is tender and nearly done.
4: Add Mango and Coconut Milk
Blend Mango (if using fresh):
If you’re using fresh mangoes, blend them into a smooth puree beforehand. Canned mango pulp is also a convenient and flavorful alternative.
Pour in the Mango Pulp:
Add the mango pulp to the pan and stir well. You’ll notice the curry begin to take on a golden hue and develop a subtle sweetness.
Add Coconut Milk:
Slowly pour in the coconut milk and mix thoroughly. Let the curry simmer for another 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend into a creamy, rich consistency.
Optional Cream Finish:
If you prefer a restaurant-style richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh cream right before turning off the heat.
5: Garnish and Serve
Fresh Cilantro Touch:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the curry. The green contrast adds a beautiful color and a fresh herbal note.
Ready to Serve:
Serve your Mango Chicken Curry piping hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, butter naan, or even roti. It’s also great with a side of cucumber raita or pickled onions.
Calorie Breakdown
- Chicken (500g): ~825 calories
- Yogurt & Lemon Juice: ~79 calories
- Onion, Tomato, Mango: ~184 calories
- Oil: ~240 calories
- Coconut Milk: ~445 calories
- Cream (optional): ~104 calories
- Spices & Cilantro: ~31 calories
- Total (without cream): ~1,804 calories
- Total (with cream): ~1,908 calories
- Servings: 4
- Per Serving: ~452–477 calories
Why This Recipe Works
Sweet and Spicy Fusion:
The creamy coconut base, combined with the bold spices and natural sweetness of mango, delivers a unique and addictive flavor that’s both bold and balanced.
Easy Yet Impressive:
Though it may look gourmet, this recipe is surprisingly simple and uses accessible ingredients. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Versatile Customization:
From adjusting the spice level to switching out proteins like tofu or shrimp, this recipe allows for creativity while still tasting amazing.
Perfect for All Seasons:
While it’s great in summer when mangoes are in season, it also brings warmth and comfort during cooler months thanks to its rich, warming spices.
Family and Guest Favorite:
This curry isn’t just beautiful to look at—it’s packed with flavor and universally loved, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and festive occasions.
FAQs
Can I use canned mango pulp?
Yes, absolutely. Canned mango pulp is a convenient and reliable option, especially if fresh mangoes aren’t in season.
What if I want it spicier?
To turn up the heat, simply add more green chili or an extra pinch of red chili powder. You can also include a dash of cayenne pepper.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes! Let the curry cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to refresh the consistency.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Indeed! Omit the yogurt and cream. Instead, marinate the chicken with lemon juice, spices, and a bit of oil. Use full-fat coconut milk for richness.
What protein substitutes can I use?
Paneer, tofu, or even chickpeas are fantastic alternatives. Simply adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make it healthier?
Use less oil, skip the cream, and go for light coconut milk. Serve it with brown rice or whole wheat roti for a more nutritious option.
Does it taste sweet like dessert?
Not at all. The mango adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and spicy notes—it enhances the flavor without overpowering it.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, green beans, or peas work beautifully in this curry. Add them in after the chicken is half-cooked for a complete one-pot meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Tropical Twist on a Classic:
This isn’t your average chicken curry. The mango brings in a sunny, tropical vibe that elevates the entire experience.
Beginner-Friendly Directions:
With clear steps and everyday ingredients, anyone can recreate this dish at home—no special skills or tools needed.
Rich Aroma and Color:
From the sizzling spices to the golden hue of the curry, the sensory appeal of this dish is unbeatable.
Crowd-Pleaser:
Whether you’re serving kids or adults, everyone loves the creamy, sweet-savory flavor that comes with every bite.
A Dish to Remember:
It’s not just food—it’s an experience. The blend of spices, fruit, and cream makes every mouthful memorable.
