This Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras Recipe is a bold and flavorful Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, spicy tomato-based sauce. Packed with aromatic spices, garlic, ginger, and coconut milk, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heat and depth. Ready in 40 minutes, it’s an easy homemade curry that rivals restaurant-quality flavors.
What is Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Madras?
Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Madras is a classic Indian curry with deep, smoky flavors and a spicy kick. Originating from South India, this dish features a tomato-based sauce infused with Madras curry powder, chili, and warming spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The addition of coconut milk balances the heat, creating a creamy, rich texture.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes
- Gordon Ramsay Cauliflower Steak
- Gordon Ramsay Sirloin Steak
- Gordon Ramsay Gazpacho
- Gordon Ramsay Paella
Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
- Bold and spicy flavors: Perfect for those who love heat.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes.
- Rich and creamy texture: Coconut milk adds smoothness.
- Customizable spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference.
- Great for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
For the Chicken Madras Curry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 2 teaspoons Madras curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- ½ cup water or chicken stock
For Garnish & Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Steamed basmati rice
- Warm naan or roti
Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, sauté onions for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic, ginger, and chilies, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Spices
- Stir in Madras curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and stir well, then add salt, black pepper, and sugar.
Step 5: Simmer the Curry
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour in water or chicken stock. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in coconut milk (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Final Touches & Serve
- Adjust seasoning and add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
- Steamed Basmati Rice: A perfect side to absorb the rich sauce.
- Garlic Naan: Ideal for scooping up the curry.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt side to balance the spice.
- Mango Chutney: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Grilled Vegetables: Complements the smoky flavors.
Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
- Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier than chicken breast.
- Toast the spices: Releases deeper flavors in the curry.
- Simmer for depth: The longer it cooks, the richer the taste.
- Adjust the heat: Add more chilies or chili powder for extra spice.
- Rest before serving: Letting the curry sit for a few minutes enhances the flavors.
Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
- Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken with paneer or chickpeas.
- Go extra creamy: Increase coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Try lamb or beef: Works well with other proteins for a heartier curry.
- Add vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Use ghee instead of oil: Adds a buttery, authentic Indian flavor.
Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- Thaw properly: Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras
- Stovetop method: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Microwave method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Avoid overcooking: Keeps the chicken tender and prevents the sauce from drying out.
FAQs
How spicy is Chicken Madras?
Chicken Madras is medium to hot, but you can adjust the spice level by adding or reducing chili.
Can I make Chicken Madras without coconut milk?
Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or heavy cream instead for a different creamy texture.
What is the best substitute for Madras curry powder?
Mix 2 teaspoons curry powder with ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to replicate the heat and flavor.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the coconut milk in the last 30 minutes.
Final Words
This Gordon Ramsay Chicken Madras Recipe brings the perfect balance of heat, richness, and bold flavors to your table. Whether served with rice or naan, this dish is an irresistible take on the classic Indian curry. Try it today and enjoy a homemade, restaurant-quality meal in under 40 minutes!
PrintGordon Ramsay Chicken Madras Recipe
Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Madras is a classic Indian curry with deep, smoky flavors and a spicy kick. Originating from South India, this dish features a tomato-based sauce infused with Madras curry powder, chili, and warming spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The addition of coconut milk balances the heat, creating a creamy, rich texture.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing & Simmering
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
For the Chicken Madras Curry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1–2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 2 teaspoons Madras curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- ½ cup water or chicken stock
For Garnish & Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Steamed basmati rice
- Warm naan or roti
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, sauté onions for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic, ginger, and chilies, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Spices
- Stir in Madras curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and stir well, then add salt, black pepper, and sugar.
Step 5: Simmer the Curry
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour in water or chicken stock. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in coconut milk (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Final Touches & Serve
- Adjust seasoning and add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.