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Have you ever wondered how to bring the exquisite taste of restaurant-style chicken handi right into your kitchen? Today, we're diving deep into the world of flavors with the best chicken handi recipe that's sure to impress your taste buds and wow your guests. So, put on your chef's hat, and let's unlock the secret to the perfect chicken handi!
What Chicken Handi?
Chicken handi is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, known for its rich, creamy gravy and tender chicken pieces that melt in your mouth. The term "handi" refers to the traditional clay pot used for cooking, which imparts a unique earthy flavor to the dish. But don't worry, you can still achieve that signature taste with your regular cookware.
Ingredients required for preparing ultimate Chicken Handi
Before we get into the chicken handi recipe, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Yogurt: 1 cup, whisked
- Chicken: 1 kg, bone-in pieces (preferably curry cut)
- Onions: 2 large, finely chopped
- Tomatoes: 2 large, pureed
- Ginger-garlic paste: 2 tablespoons
- Green chilies: 2-3, slit
- Fresh cream: 1/2 cup
- Oil or ghee: 4 tablespoons
- Salt: To taste
- Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
- Kasuri methi (Dried fenugreek leaves): 1 tablespoon
- Bay Leaf: 1
- Cinnamon Stick: 1 small piece
- Green Cardamoms: 3-4
- Cloves: 2-3
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Julienned ginger: Optional
Step-by-Step Chicken Handi recipe
Ready to cook the best chicken handi? Follow these simple steps to create a dish that's bursting with flavor.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken pieces with the whisked yogurt, half of the ginger-garlic paste, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Sauté the spices
In a large handi or a deep pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, green cardamoms, and cloves. Sauté until they release their aromatic fragrance.
Step 3: Cook the onions
Add the finely chopped onions to the handi and cook until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial for developing the base of the chicken handi recipe.
Step 4: Add Ginger-garlic and tomatoes
Add the remaining ginger-garlic paste and the slit green chilies. Sauté for a couple of minutes before adding the pureed tomatoes. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
Step 5: Spice it up
Now, it's time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Mix well and cook for a few minutes to allow the spices to blend beautifully.
Step 6: Add the chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the handi. Mix well to coat the chicken with the masala. Cover and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Creamy goodness
Once the chicken is almost cooked, add the fresh cream and kasuri methi. Stir well and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Final touch
Sprinkle garam masala and give it a final stir. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and julienned ginger if you like an extra zing.
Tips for the perfect Chicken Handi
1. Quality ingredients: Use fresh and good-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
2. Slow Cooking: Letting the chicken cook slowly allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
3. Handi or Heavy-bottomed pan: Using a heavy-bottomed pan ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Enjoy your Chicken Handi
And there you have it, the ultimate chicken handi recipe that's bound to become a family favorite. Serve it with hot naan, roti, or steamed rice, and watch your loved ones savor every bite. Cooking chicken handi at home not only gives you control over the ingredients but also brings a touch of restaurant-style luxury to your dining table.
So, next time you're craving something special, remember this chicken handi recipe. It's your ticket to unlocking a world of rich, aromatic flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!