Discover How To Make Chicken Handi In 9 Simple Steps Today

Chicken Handi is a delectable Indian dish known for its rich, aromatic gravy and tender chicken pieces. Traditionally cooked in a handi (a clay pot), this dish features marinated chicken simmered in a creamy sauce made with yogurt, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like garam masala, coriander, and cumin. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory, slightly tangy sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. Often garnished with fresh cilantro and sometimes finished with a swirl of cream, Chicken Handi is best served with naan, roti, or steamed rice, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

Here's a flavorful recipe for Chicken Handi, a popular Indian dish known for its rich and aromatic gravy!

1. Ingredients

For the Chicken:

- 1 lb (450g) chicken, cut into pieces (bone-in or boneless)

- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

- 2 medium onions, finely sliced

- 2-3 green chilies, slit

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 cup plain yogurt

- 2 tomatoes, pureed

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- Salt to taste

- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

- 1/2 cup cream (optional)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Heat the Oil:

- In a handi or a large pot, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Step 2- Saut Onions:

- Add the sliced onions and saut until they turn golden brown. This can take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3- Add Green Chilies and Ginger-Garlic:

- Stir in the slit green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Saut for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4- Cook the Chicken:

- Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5- Add Spices:

- Mix in the coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices.

Step 6- Incorporate Yogurt:

- Reduce the heat and add the yogurt gradually, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Cook for about 5 minutes.

Step 7- Add Tomato Puree:

- Stir in the tomato puree and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the gravy thickens. You can add a little water if the gravy is too thick.

Step 8- Finish with Cream:

- If using, stir in the cream for a richer texture and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 9- Garnish and Serve:

- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

This Chicken Handi is a delicious, hearty dish packed with spices and flavor, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions!