This Chicken Masala recipe is flavorful, aromatic, and perfect for any occasion. Serve it with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
500g chicken (bone-in or boneless, cut into medium pieces)
1/2 cup yogurt (plain)
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
For the Masala:
2 tbsp cooking oil or ghee
2 medium onions, finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes, pureed
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
2 green chilies, slit (optional for spice)
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 bay leaf
1-inch cinnamon stick
3-4 cloves
2-3 cardamom pods
1 tsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp cumin powder
1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for better flavor).
Prepare the Masala:
Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté until aromatic.
Add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the tomato puree to the pan. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
Mix in coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add the Chicken:
Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Sauté on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.
Simmer the Curry:
Pour in 1/2 cup of water and mix well. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Stir occasionally and adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
Finish with Garam Masala:
Sprinkle garam masala and mix well. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.
Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Masala!