If you’ve ever traveled the highways of India, you’ve likely tasted the magic of dhaba style chicken curry — a spicy, smoky, and rustic chicken dish served piping hot at roadside eateries known as dhabas. The aroma alone can pull travelers off the road!

This recipe helps you recreate that same rich, bold flavor of dhaba chicken curry in your kitchen using simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re hosting guests or craving something comforting, this dish hits the spot.

Ingredients for Dhaba Style Chicken Curry

For Marination:

• 700 grams bone-in chicken (cleaned and cut into medium pieces)
• ¾ cup thick curd (yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Juice of half a lemon

For Curry Base:

• 3 tablespoons mustard oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 4-5 black peppercorns
• 1 cinnamon stick (1-inch)
• 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• 2 green chilies (slit)
• 3 large tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Water as needed

How to Make Dhaba Style Chicken Curry at Home

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine yogurt, ginger garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Coat the chicken and marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
2. Heat Oil & Temper Spices: Heat mustard oil to smoking point, reduce heat and add bay leaves, cardamom, peppercorns, and cinnamon stick.
3. Sauté Onions: Add onions and cook until golden brown. Add ginger garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté well.
4. Add Tomatoes & Spices: Add chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook until oil separates.
5. Cook Chicken: Add marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes on high, stirring frequently.
6. Simmer: Add water and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked and tender.
7. Finish: Sprinkle garam masala, garnish with coriander leaves, and serve hot.

Tips for the Perfect Dhaba Chicken Curry

• Use bone-in chicken for authentic flavor.
• Mustard oil gives a traditional dhaba aroma.
• Cook onions until golden brown for depth.
• Adjust spice level to taste.
• Simmer slowly for intense flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Dhaba Chicken Curry (Per Serving)

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Includes antioxidant-rich spices

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What makes dhaba style chicken curry different from restaurant-style chicken curry?

Dhaba curries are rustic and spicier, made with mustard oil and simple ingredients.

• Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but bone-in gives better flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

• How spicy is dhaba chicken curry?

It can be spicy but is easily adjustable by reducing chilies.

• Can I cook this in a pressure cooker?

Yes, 2–3 whistles on medium flame after adding water.

• What can I serve it with?

Steamed rice, jeera rice, tandoori roti, or paratha.

Conclusion

Nothing beats the comfort and nostalgia of a steaming bowl of dhaba style chicken curry served with hot rice or roti. This homemade version lets you experience the same intense flavors of India’s highways without leaving your kitchen.

Also Read – Creamy Chicken Handi Recipe – Traditional Mughlai Delight