Learn How To Make Chicken Chukka In 3 Steps

Chicken Chukka is a spicy, dry chicken dish popular in South Indian cuisine. It features tender pieces of chicken marinated in a blend of yogurt, spices, and herbs, then cooked with onions, green chilies, and tomatoes until the flavors meld into a rich, aromatic masala. The result is a flavorful, dry curry with a slightly crispy texture, perfect for pairing with rice, roti, or as a stand-alone dish. The dish is often garnished with fresh coriander, adding a vibrant touch to its deep, savory taste.

Here's a recipe for Chicken Chukka, a flavorful and spicy South Indian dry chicken dish:

1. Ingredients

For Marination:

- 500 grams chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1/2 cup yogurt

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- Salt to taste

For Cooking:

- 2 tablespoons oil

- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2-3 green chilies, slit

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1-2 tomatoes, finely chopped

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (optional)

- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.

2. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer for better flavor.

Step 2- Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

3. Add the finely chopped onions and green chilies. Saut until onions turn golden brown.

4. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.

5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate.

6. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and fennel seeds (if using). Cook for a minute.

7. Add the marinated chicken and mix well. Cook on medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and the spices are well absorbed. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

8. Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Cook until the water evaporates and the chicken is coated with a thick, spicy masala.

Step 3- Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.

2. Serve hot with rice, roti, or as an accompaniment to a meal.

Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Chukka!