Get yourself in the rich and aromatic flavors of Chicken Masala, a beloved dish that encapsulates the essence of Indian cuisine. Tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a blend of spices before being simmered to perfection in a luscious tomato-based gravy. This classic recipe harmoniously combines traditional spices with a touch of modern flair, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s both comforting and irresistibly delicious.
Chicken masala recipe
Chicken Masala, often referred to as Chicken Curry, is a popular Indian dish known for its flavorful combination of tender chicken pieces and a rich, spiced gravy. It's made by marinating chicken in a mixture of spices and yogurt, then cooking it in a tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The result is a hearty and aromatic dish that's enjoyed with rice, naan, or other breads. Variations of Chicken Masala exist across different regions, with unique twists in the spice blends and cooking methods, making it a versatile and cherished culinary delight.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing
For the marinade:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the ingredients for the marinade. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer.
- In a large pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger and garlic paste to the onions and cook for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Stir in the cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook the spices for a minute or two to release their flavors.
- Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala mixture.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces along with the marinade. Cook on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in a cup of water, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer until it's cooked through and tender.
- Sprinkle garam masala and salt over the chicken. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
- Serve the Chicken Masala hot with rice, naan, or any Indian bread of your choice.Enjoy your homemade Chicken Masala!
Video
Notes
One important thing to note when making Chicken Masala is to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C). This is essential for both safety and taste, as undercooked chicken can pose health risks and detract from the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Additionally, when adjusting the spice levels, start with smaller amounts of chili powder and gradually add more if you prefer it spicier. It's easier to add more spice later than to make the dish too hot right from the beginning.
Nutrition
Serving: 100g
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