Homestyle Chicken Curry

Intro

Ingredients (4 Servings)

1. 3 tsp mustard oil
2. 2–3 medium onions, finely chopped
3. 7–8 garlic cloves + ½ inch ginger + 2–3 green chilies (crushed into a coarse paste)
4. 1–2 bay leaves
5. ½ inch cinnamon stick
6. 1 tsp cumin seeds
7. 2 black and 2 green cardamom, lightly crushed
8. 2–3 cloves and black peppercorns
9. 1 whole chicken (700–800 g), curry-cut and cleaned
10. 6–7 medium tomatoes, puréed
11. 2–3 tsp coriander powder
12. 1 tsp red chili powder (or Kashmiri chili for color)
13. ½ tsp turmeric powder
14. Salt to taste
15. Water as needed
16. 1–2 pinches garam masala (roasted and powdered)
17. Fresh coriander leaves and stems, finely chopped

Directions

1. Heat mustard oil in a thick-bottomed pan until it reaches smoking point, then reduce the heat.
2. Add whole spices and sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
3. Add chopped onions and the ginger-garlic-chili paste. Cook until deep golden-brown.
4. Add tomato purée with a pinch of salt and cook until moisture evaporates and oil separates.
5. Add coriander powder, red chili powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release flavors.
6. Add chicken pieces and roast well until coated and lightly browned.
7. Cook until chicken is about halfway done.
8. Add salt and water to desired consistency (slightly thinner than final gravy). Cover and simmer.
9. Once chicken is tender, add garam masala and half of the coriander (with stems). Cover and steam for 2 minutes.
10. Adjust seasoning, garnish with remaining coriander, and serve hot with phulkas, onion rings, and lemon.

Recipe Contributor: Kanika Madan Sinha, Voice over artist and Food & Travel Content Creator @theunbiasedfoodie

Nutrition

Wholesome, Flavorful, and Comforting! This homestyle chicken curry is a timeless favorite at family meals, filling the kitchen with its rich aroma and bringing everyone together around the table. Each serving carries warmth, tradition, and the joy of sharing simple yet deeply satisfying food with loved ones.