Chicken Kelly Recipe Made Easy: Delicious & Quick Meals

Updated On: October 13, 2025

Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with our Chicken Kelly recipe – a flavorful and comforting dish that promises to become a staple in your kitchen. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a medley of vibrant spices and fresh ingredients, creating a harmonious blend of taste and aroma.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, Chicken Kelly is simple enough for weeknight meals yet impressive enough for entertaining.

Inspired by classic home-cooked flavors, this dish embraces the perfect balance between savory and aromatic, with hints of herbs that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences!

If you’re looking to expand your recipe repertoire, this is a sure winner. Ready your apron and let’s dive into the world of Chicken Kelly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Kelly stands out for its rich and robust flavor profile that comes together with minimal fuss. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Quick and easy to prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
  • Versatile: Great served over rice, with bread, or alongside steamed vegetables.
  • Comfort food: The warm spices and tender chicken create a cozy, satisfying meal.
  • Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with flavors that please both kids and adults.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, making it a flexible choice for any occasion!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan with lid
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs or spatula for turning chicken

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Sear the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. Sauté the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes. Stir constantly to toast the spices for about 1 minute.
  6. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  8. Finish with lemon juice: Remove the lid, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For extra depth, marinate the chicken with a bit of yogurt, garlic, and spices for at least an hour before cooking.”

  • For a creamier sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
  • Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a colorful veggie boost.
  • Spice level: Adjust chili flakes or add fresh chopped chili to control the heat.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free chicken broth and serve with rice or gluten-free bread.
  • Herb swaps: Try fresh basil or mint instead of cilantro for a different flavor twist.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 chicken thigh with sauce)
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 28 g
Fat 16 g
Carbohydrates 6 g
Fiber 2 g
Sodium 450 mg

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Kelly is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to serve alongside:

  • Steamed basmati or jasmine rice: The fragrant rice soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
  • Warm crusty bread: Perfect for dipping and enjoying every last bit of the sauce.
  • Roasted or steamed vegetables: Such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a balanced meal.
  • Light salad: A crisp cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing contrasts nicely with the warm spices.

For more inspiration on wholesome meals, check out our Chicken Pot Pie Easy Recipe With Veg and Soup Included or explore vegetarian options like Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Conclusion

Chicken Kelly is a wonderful addition to your recipe collection, offering a perfect blend of spices and juicy chicken that will delight your palate. Its simplicity and adaptability make it suitable for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick, satisfying meal.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or a flavorful feast for friends, this recipe delivers on taste and comfort.

Don’t hesitate to customize the spices and sides to suit your preferences, and enjoy the process of creating a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. For more easy and flavorful meals, be sure to explore our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious and other culinary treasures on our site.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Chicken Kelly

Description: A flavorful chicken dish with a creamy tomato sauce and herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
  3. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
  4. Remove chicken and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  6. Add tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cook until sauce thickens.
  8. Return chicken to skillet and coat with sauce.
  9. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to heat through.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 38 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 6 g

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Marta K

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