Delicious Chicken Masala Recipe

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

1. 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).

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Finish with Garam Masala:
   
   

   • Sprinkle garam masala and mix well. Cook for another 2 minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve:
   
   

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

   • Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.

Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Masala!