Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that transports your taste buds straight to India? Look no further! Trader Joe's Meal Prep Curry Takeout is your ticket to a flavorful adventure, bursting with spices and wholesome ingredients. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish featuring tender chicken thighs, hearty chickpeas, and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a rich curry sauce. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly rewarding. Read on to discover how to bring this culinary delight to your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Trader Joe's curry sauce
- Chicken thighs
- Chickpeas
- Spinach
- Rice
- Onion
- Garlic
- Ginger
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: Trader Joe's curry sauce, chicken thighs, canned chickpeas, fresh spinach, rice, onion, garlic, and ginger. Make sure to rinse the chickpeas under cold water and drain them well.
- Prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Typically, you will need to rinse the rice, then combine it with water in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, usually around 15-20 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Dice the onion into small pieces, mince the garlic, and grate or finely chop the ginger to release its flavor.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the onion. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is browned, pour in the Trader Joe's curry sauce and stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- After 10 minutes, add the rinsed chickpeas and fresh spinach to the curry. Stir gently to combine and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and the chickpeas are heated through.
- Once everything is cooked, taste the curry and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
- To serve, fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it among four plates. Spoon the curry mixture over the rice, ensuring each serving has a good amount of chicken, chickpeas, and spinach.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt if desired. Enjoy your homemade Trader Joe's Meal Prep Curry Takeout!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onion, garlic, and ginger in advance and store them in the fridge. This way, you can jump straight into cooking when you're ready.
- Rice Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, for added aroma and flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Protein Options: While chicken thighs are delicious, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the protein is cooked through.
- Spice It Up: If you like your curry with a kick, consider adding some chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies when sautéing the onion, garlic, and ginger.
- Fresh Herbs: Don’t skip the garnishing! Fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of green onions can elevate the dish, adding a burst of freshness that complements the rich curry.
- Storage Tips: This curry stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with naan or pita bread alongside the rice for a complete meal experience. A dollop of yogurt can also add a creamy touch to balance the spices.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
