When it comes to comfort food with bold Indian flavors, nothing beats a well-cooked masala chicken recipe. Whether you enjoy it dry with roti or as a semi-gravy with rice, this dish never fails to impress with its intense aroma and satisfying taste.
The masala chicken recipe is a versatile favorite that blends succulent chicken pieces with a spicy onion-tomato base. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weekday dinners or weekend indulgence. Let’s walk you through this easy and mouthwatering chicken masala recipe that brings restaurant-style flavor to your home.
Ingredients
- For Chicken Marinade:
- 500g chicken (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/2 cup curd (yogurt)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- For Masala:
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (finely chopped or pureed)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with curd, turmeric, salt, and ginger-garlic paste. Set aside for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and oil separates.
- Mix in red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook the masala for a few minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken and stir well to coat it with the masala.
- Cover and cook on low flame until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Add garam masala and simmer for another 5 minutes until the masala thickens.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Tips and Tricks
- Use bone-in chicken for deeper flavor and juicy texture.
- Don’t rush the onion and tomato base—this forms the soul of the dish.
- Add a splash of water if the masala is too dry during cooking.
- Adjust spices to your heat tolerance for a customized taste.
- Leftovers can be used as stuffing for rolls or sandwiches.
Nutritional Benefits
- High protein content from chicken supports muscle growth and repair.
- Spices like turmeric and cumin aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Tomatoes provide antioxidants such as lycopene.
- Yogurt helps tenderize chicken and adds beneficial probiotics.
- Onions and garlic support heart health and immunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, boneless chicken works well and cooks faster. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Q: What can I serve with masala chicken?
A: It pairs perfectly with roti, naan, paratha, or steamed rice.
- Q: Can I make this recipe less spicy?
A: Absolutely, reduce the chili powder and skip green chilies to tone down the heat.
- Q: How long does masala chicken last in the fridge?
A: Store in an airtight container and consume within 2–3 days.
- Q: Can I freeze the masala chicken?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This masala chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings bold spices, tender meat, and a rich masala together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees flavor in every bite.
Now that you know how to make masala chicken at home, pair it with jeera rice, butter naan, or a fresh cucumber salad to complete your meal. Enjoy the taste of tradition and spice on your plate.
Also Read – Ultimate Chicken Biryani Recipe – Restaurant-Style Flavors at Home
