Enjoy the rich taste of Chicken Masala, a south Indian favorite. This easy recipe combines bone-in chicken with aromatic spices and herbs, creating a mouthwatering meal. Perfect with rice or bread, it's ideal for any lunch or dinner.
Combine chicken with Kashmiri chili, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt in a bowl. Mix thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
To Prepare Chicken Masala
In a pan over medium heat, pour oil. Add cinnamon, bay leaves, cardamom, and fennel seeds. Sauté until aromatic to release their flavors, then add onion, sautéing until it becomes soft.
Stir in ginger-garlic paste, Kashmiri chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Sauté until fragrant, ensuring the spices are well-cooked to enhance their flavors.
Add chopped tomatoes and continue sautéing until they turn mushy. This creates a rich and tangy base for the masala.
Add the marinated chicken, mixing it well with the spices. Close the pan and cook until the chicken releases its liquid. This step ensures the chicken absorbs the spices for a deeper flavor.
Open the lid, give it a good stir, then add water. Mix well, cover the pan again, and cook for about 15-20 minutes. The slow cooking helps the chicken become tender and flavorsome.
Open the lid, reduce the heat to simmer, and cook until the curry releases oil from its sides. This is a sign that the spices are well integrated.
Finally, switch the heat to high and stir until the mixture reaches your desired masala consistency. Garnish with curry leaves, which adds a burst of flavor and freshness. Remove the Chicken Masala from the heat and it's ready to serve.
To Serve
Enjoy the spicy, aromatic Chicken Masala with basmati, white, or jasmine rice, or enjoy with roti, naan. For more pairing ideas, see the serving suggestions section.
Notes
Here are some tips to perfect your Chicken Masala:
Marinate for Flavor: To infuse the chicken with rich flavors, marinate it for at least 15 minutes. This allows the spices and seasonings to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and tenderness.
Use Bone-In Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken pieces as they contain marrow in the bones, adding depth and richness to the masala sauce. The marrow enhances the overall flavor and succulence of the dish.
Customize Spice Levels: Don't hesitate to adjust the spice powders according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the quantity of spices to create a flavor profile that suits your palate.
Watch the Temperature: Achieving the perfect consistency in Chicken Masala relies on temperature control. Start by simmering until the oil separates from the sauce, indicating proper blending. Then, roast the dish at a higher temperature to attain the desired texture and thickness.
Add Herbs for Aroma: Elevate the aroma of your Chicken Masala by incorporating aromatic herbs like curry leaves. Alternatively, experiment with kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) or fresh coriander leaves for diverse and enticing flavor profiles.
Control the Consistency: Tailor the consistency of your Chicken Masala to your liking. If you prefer a drier dish, continue to roast the chicken in the masala for a few extra minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors while achieving the desired texture.
Resting Time: After cooking, allow your Chicken Masala to rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the various flavors and elements to meld together, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious dish.
Cooking Oil Choice: Choose your cooking oil wisely. A neutral oil or traditional ghee (clarified butter) are excellent choices for an authentic flavor profile. Ghee, in particular, adds a rich and nutty undertone to your Chicken Masala.