Madras Chicken
A creamy, spicy chicken stew with fresh veggies, velvety cheese, and aromatic curry that pairs perfectly with rice or naan, ideal for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1/2 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 garlic clove, minced ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. butter ⓘ
- 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can whole tomatoes, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. dried thyme leaves ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. Velveeta cheese spread, cubed ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 to 2 tsp. curry powder ⓘ
- 4 boneless chicken breasts (1-inch cubes) ⓘ
- 1 tsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. black pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook and stir bell pepper, onion, garlic, and curry powder until vegetables are crisp and tender.
- Add chicken cubes; cook and stir 5 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink.
- Stir in tomatoes, lemon juice, thyme, and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to low; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Velveeta cheese spread and stir until melted.
- Serve over cooked rice if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more authentic flavor, consider using coconut milk instead of Velveeta cheese spread. If you're looking for a spicier kick, add chopped green chilies or increase the curry powder. Fresh cilantro can also enhance the dish's flavor profile. Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, but not overdone, to maintain its juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Madras Chicken over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Mulligatawny Soup for a delightful Indian-inspired feast. A side of sautéed vegetables or a simple salad can also complement this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Madras Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water or coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Madras Chicken contains roughly 681 calories, with 23g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 720mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with cream cheese or shredded cheddar for a different flavor. Just ensure that the cheese is melted well into the sauce to maintain a creamy texture. Adjust the amount based on your preference for cheesiness.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Madras Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers and reheat as needed for the best results.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Cook the vegetables as directed and then add the chickpeas or tofu to absorb the flavors. This variation will still be hearty and delicious, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).