Chicken Dahi Wala is a flavorful Indian dish where chicken is marinated with yogurt and spices, then cooked to perfection in a creamy yogurt-based gravy. The combination of ginger, garlic, onions, and aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala adds depth to the dish. The yogurt provides a tangy and rich texture while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. This comforting curry is ideal for pairing with steamed rice, naan, or roti. Its mild yet fragrant taste makes it suitable for any occasion. Chicken Dahi Wala is a wholesome, satisfying meal that delights the palate.
Ingredients
For Marination:
- 1 kg chicken (bone-in or boneless, as preferred)
- 1 cup thick curd/yogurt (whisked)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 2-3 green chilies (slit lengthwise)
- 2 medium tomatoes (finely chopped or pureed)
- 2 tablespoons ghee/oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2-3 cloves
- 2 green cardamoms
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped for garnishing)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Clean and pat dry the chicken pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, add whisked yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them thoroughly.
- Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors and tenderize.
Step 2: Cook the Base of the Gravy
- Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamoms, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Saut for 30-40 seconds until aromatic.
- Add the finely chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions turn golden brown. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes and Spices
- Add the chopped or pureed tomatoes to the pan and mix well. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Add garam masala powder and a pinch of kasuri methi for extra flavor. Cook for another 2 minutes while stirring.
Step 4: Add Marinated Chicken and Simmer
- Add the marinated chicken pieces along with any leftover marinade into the pan. Mix well with the onion-tomato masala.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken begins to change color and absorbs the masala.
- Add a little water (1/2 to 1 cup) to adjust the gravy consistency as desired. Stir gently.
- Cover the pan and simmer on low-medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Stir occasionally and check to ensure the yogurt does not curdle. If needed, cook on low heat to prevent splitting.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy reaches a creamy consistency, check for seasoning and adjust salt as needed.
- Sprinkle chopped coriander leaves and a pinch of garam masala for extra aroma. Mix well.
- Turn off the heat and let the Chicken Dahi Wala rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the creamy Chicken Dahi Wala hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or Indian breads like roti, naan, or paratha.
- Pair with a simple side salad or raita for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Dahi Wala
- Whisk the yogurt well: To prevent curdling, whisk the yogurt before adding it to the dish. Cooking on low heat after adding yogurt helps maintain the creamy texture.
- Marination is key: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with spices and tenderize it.
- Don't rush: Cook the chicken and masala on medium-low heat for a rich, well-rounded flavor.
- Adjust the spices: Modify the level of red chili and garam masala to suit your taste preferences.
- Ghee vs. Oil: Using ghee enhances the flavor, but you can use oil for a lighter version.
Conclusion
This Chicken Dahi Wala recipe combines the tangy creaminess of yogurt with aromatic Indian spices to create a delectable, comforting curry. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, it pairs beautifully with rice or bread. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your loved ones.