Chicken Masala recipe – How to make Chicken Masala at Home
Chicken Masala is a popular dish in Indian cuisine known for its rich, spicy, and flavorful profile. It combines tender chicken pieces with a variety of spices and a creamy tomato-based sauce. This guide will walk you through the steps to make delicious Chicken Masala at home, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal with family.
Ingredients
For Marination:
- 500g chicken pieces (boneless or with bone)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala powder
- Salt to taste
For the Masala:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, slit (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Prepare the Marination:
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt.
- Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Masala
Heat the Oil:
- In a large pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Onions:
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- This step is crucial for a rich flavor, so be patient and let the onions caramelize slowly.
Add Ginger-Garlic Paste and Green Chilies:
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies.
- Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Incorporate Spices:
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.
- Cook for a minute to allow the spices to release their aroma.
Add Tomato Puree:
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- This takes about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add Marinated Chicken:
- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan.
- Stir well to coat the chicken with the masala.
Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Finish with Cream:
- Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, add the heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Season:
- Check for seasoning and add salt if necessary.
- Sprinkle garam masala powder and mix well.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve:
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
- Enjoy your homemade Chicken Masala!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Masala
- Marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate for a longer time enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Onions and Tomatoes: Properly caramelizing onions and cooking tomatoes until the oil separates is key to a rich and flavorful masala.
- Spices: Use freshly ground spices for a more aromatic and vibrant dish.
- Cream or Coconut Milk: Adjust the amount of cream or coconut milk to your preference for a thicker or lighter sauce.
Conclusion
Making Chicken Masala at home is a rewarding experience that brings the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dish that is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!