When it comes to indulging in flavorful Indian cuisine, Chettinad Chicken Masala always tops the list. The rich and aromatic blend of spices combined with tender chicken pieces creates a dish that is both comforting and exotic. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make this delectable Chettinad Chicken Masala with step-by-step instructions, so you can recreate the flavors of Southern India right in your own kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
**Chettinad Chicken Masala Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 onions, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, pureed
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 4-5 cloves
– 4-5 green cardamom pods
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 2 teaspoons red chili powder
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
– 2 tablespoons oil
**Instructions:**
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
2. Add the finely chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
5. Mix in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for a couple of minutes until the spices are well incorporated.
6. Add the chicken pieces to the masala and sauté for a few minutes until they are sealed on all sides.
7. Pour in 1 cup of water, cover the pan with a lid, and let the chicken cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until tender.
8. Once the chicken is cooked through, add the grated coconut and simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Adjust the seasoning with salt according to your taste.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and turn off the heat.
11. Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan for a complete meal.
Chettinad Chicken Masala is a dish that combines the earthy flavors of traditional Indian spices with the succulent goodness of chicken. The complex blend of masalas create a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked southern regions of India.
Experiment with this recipe by adjusting the spice levels to suit your palate. You can also add a splash of coconut milk for a richer gravy or sprinkle some crushed kasuri methi for an added depth of flavor.
Prepare this Chettinad Chicken Masala for a cozy dinner with your loved ones or impress your guests with the vibrant colors and aromatic aroma of this dish at your next gathering. Enjoy the warm, spicy goodness of this classic Indian recipe and relish the comforting flavors of Chettinad cuisine right in your own home.
