If there is a curry version of Marry Me Chicken, this is the one. You're sure to impress, especially if cooking curries is not your thing.
I learned it from a friend who learned it from a chef in Dubai. She calls it Chicken Sanman, but I prefer Marry Me Chicken Curry. It’s similar to an Indian curry but with a unique Arabic touch.
The Indian diaspora in the Middle East has a way of taking Indian recipes and adding their blend of ketchup, soy sauce, mirin, or rice vinegar, creating a unique twist similar to how the Indo-Chinese cuisine evolved from a mix of Indian Chinese who lived in Kolkata in the early 19th century.
The hero of our recipe is Maggi tomato ketchup. It adds that rich umami flavor to the dish. This curry is quick, easy, and perfect for impressing guests.
It has a mild yet delicious taste and can be prepared in minutes without prepping or chopping, using only a few simple sauces and spices.
However, if you're looking for a more ingredient-based, time-consuming recipe, definitely try our Chicken Ghee Roast. It's a bomb of flavors, aroma, and color!
Jump to:
What is Marry Me Chicken Curry?
Marry Me Chicken Curry is my twist on the classic American Marry Me Chicken. However, the two dishes are completely different in flavor.
I’ve borrowed the name for its charm, but the taste and flavor profile of my dish are unique.
Likewise, one of my favorite dishes that can also win your guest's heart is Kerala Style Chicken Curry.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
You'll love this recipe for its incredible umami flavor that makes every bite satisfying and delicious.
It's also easy to make with just a few readily available ingredients, most of which can be replaced with alternatives if needed.
Recipe Ingredients
- Chicken: Boneless chicken is preferred for quicker cooking and a smoother texture.
- Green chilies: Green chilies are optional, but if you’re a spice lover, go for it!
- Kashmiri chilli: Kashmiri chilli gives the curry its vibrant color and mild spice, along with a slightly smoky flavor.
- Garlic and ginger: Use ginger slightly less than garlic for balance. It adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- Maggi tomato ketchup: This is the hero ingredient that transforms this curry from an Indian curry to a slightly Arabic/Middle Eastern one.
If you’re a spice lover, swap in Maggi chili tomato ketchup for an extra kick.
- Light soy sauce: Adds depth and umami to the curry. You can substitute regular soy sauce if you don’t have light soy sauce. But be mindful of the salt content.
- MSG: MSG adds an umami flavor and is optional.
- Yogurt: Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. It also balances the spices in the curry.
If you enjoy yogurt-based dishes, another delicious option in our recipe list is Indian Cilantro chicken curry with Yogurt
- Curry leaves and cilantro leaves: Fresh curry leaves and cilantro leaves add aromatic flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
Variations to try
For a different twist on Marry Me Chicken Curry, you can replace the chicken with eggs or prawns. If you're vegetarian, try it with potatoes, paneer, or soy chunks for a delicious alternative.
You can try our Soya Chunks Masala Curry which is somewhat similar to the dish
The process and all other ingredients remain the same, so no matter what you choose, the dish will still be just as flavorful and satisfying.
Your partner will be hooked!
How To Make Marry Me Chicken Curry (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes .
- Cut the green chilies into thin strips .
- Heat the oil and add the green chilies and curry leaves to sputter.
- Keep the heat medium; add in the Kashmiri chili powder and roast.
- Patiently stir this until you can feel the chili powder roast.
- I go with my gut feeling with quantities, but now is the time to add garlic and ginger.
- Continue stirring until the condiments are fully cooked.
- Now add in the chicken, salt, and turmeric.
- Now comes the magic ingredients in the marry me chicken curry recipe: light soy sauce and Maggi tomato ketchup. If you want it spicy, use the chili tomato ketchup.
Maggi tomato ketchup also works great as a dipping sauce for Kerala Beef Cutlet , enhancing its flavor.
- Add in some MSG if you like the umami flavor.
- Add yogurt to balance the spices in the curry.
- Finally, add a pinch of sugar.
- Mix them well in medium flame and keep them closed for 15 to 25 minutes.
- Taste, get a feel for it, and adjust the ingredients. For the final flavoring, add chopped cilantro leaves.
Tips And Tricks
- When roasting Kashmiri chillies along with oil and green chilies, ensure the heat is medium to prevent burning, which can result in a bitter taste.
- Avoid undercooking the Kashmiri chilli during roasting, as it will leave a raw, pungent smell instead of releasing its full flavor.
- To prevent yogurt from curdling, avoid boiling the dish after adding yogurt and stir gently to maintain a smooth texture.
- The curry develops deeper flavors the longer the Marry Me chicken curry sits, and the gravy naturally thickens within an hour or two. Allowing it to rest helps the spices and ingredients meld together for a richer, more flavorful dish.
- When adding MSG for umami flavor, use a small amount to enhance the taste without overpowering the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This curry is perfect with khubz (Arabic bread). But also goes well with Indian breads like chapati, roti, naan, or parotta. It also pairs wonderfully with Kerala Ghee Rice (Ney Choru) for an extra flavor boost.
Storage Instructions
You can store the curry in a clean, dry, airtight container. It will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 1 week.
When reheating, take the curry out and leave it outside for a while. Then, add a bit of water to adjust the consistency and reheat in the microwave or stove.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it’s not strictly necessary. You can use any brand of tomato ketchup, but Maggi tomato ketchup is preferred because it adds a unique umami flavor that enhances the dish.
Marry Me Chicken Curry is inspired by the classic American Marry Me Chicken, though the flavors are completely different. The name comes from the idea that this dish is so irresistible if you make it for your partner, they might fall in love with your cooking and propose!
To make it spicier, add more green chilies or Kashmiri chilies. You can also use Maggi Chili Tomato Ketchup instead of the regular Maggi Tomato Ketchup for an extra spice.
More Indian Recipes To Try
I’d love to hear your thoughts if you tried this! Please leave a ⭐️ rating and a comment below. Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag @a_little_bit_of_spice
Marry Me Chicken Curry
Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken
- 4 number Green Chillies
- 2 tablespoon Kashmiri Chilli
- 1 tablespoon Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Ginger
- 6 tablespoon Maggi Tomato Ketchup
- 2 tablespoon Light Soy Sauce
- 1 teaspoon MSG
- 1 cup Yogurt
- 2 sprig Curry Leaves
- 2 sprigs Cilantro
- 1½ tablespoon Oil
- Salt
Instructions
- Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes.
- Cut the green chilies into thin strips.
- Heat the oil and add the green chilies and curry leaves to sputter.
- Keep the heat medium; add in the Kashmiri chili powder and roast.
- Patiently stir this until you can feel the chili powder roast.
- I go with my gut feeling with quantities, but now is the time to add garlic and ginger.
- Continue stirring until the condiments are fully cooked.
- Now add in the chicken, salt, and turmeric.
- Add light soy sauce and Maggi tomato ketchup to the mixture. If you want it spicy, use chili tomato ketchup.
- Add in some MSG if you like the umami flavor.
- Finally, add yogurt and a pinch of sugar.
- Mix them well in medium flame and keep them closed for 15 to 25 minutes.
- Taste, get a feel for it, and adjust the ingredients. For the final flavoring, add chopped cilantro leaves.
Video
Notes
- When roasting Kashmiri chillies along with oil and green chilies, ensure the heat is medium to prevent burning, which can result in a bitter taste.
- Avoid undercooking the Kashmiri chilli during roasting, as it will leave a raw, pungent smell instead of releasing its full flavor.
- To prevent yogurt from curdling, avoid boiling the dish after adding yogurt and stir gently to maintain a smooth texture.
- The curry develops deeper flavors the longer the Marry me chicken curry sits, and the gravy naturally thickens within an hour or two. Allowing it to rest helps the spices and ingredients meld together for a richer, more flavorful dish.
- When adding MSG for umami flavor, use a small amount to enhance the taste without overpowering the dish.
Super easy recipe! And tasty too…