Gravy Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish made by marinating chicken pieces in yogurt and spices, then cooking them in a spiced onion and tomato gravy. The process begins with sautéing onions and adding ginger-garlic paste for aroma, followed by tomatoes to create a thick base. The marinated chicken is then added, simmered with water, and finished with garam masala and cream for richness. This dish combines tender chicken with a spiced, creamy sauce. It is perfect for serving with rice, naan, or roti. Garnished with fresh coriander, Gravy Chicken is a comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For Marination:
- 500g chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless as preferred)
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- Salt to taste
For Gravy:
- 3 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 green chilies, slit (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) (optional for added flavor)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup cream or thick coconut milk (optional, for a creamy texture)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, ginger-garlic paste, and salt.
- Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy Base
- Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, which adds a rich flavor to the gravy.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices
- Add ginger-garlic paste to the onions, cooking until the raw aroma disappears.
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and oil starts separating from the sides. This step deepens the flavor and makes the base rich.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and cook the spices for a few minutes, allowing them to release their aromas.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan and mix it well with the gravy base, coating each piece thoroughly.
- Sauté the chicken on medium heat for 5-7 minutes until it changes color and starts to brown slightly. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken.
Step 5: Add Water and Simmer
- Add 1-1.5 cups of water to the pan, depending on how thick you want the gravy.
- Cover and let the chicken cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
- Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy has reached the desired consistency, add garam masala and kasuri methi (crush it between your palms for extra flavor before adding).
- If you prefer a creamier gravy, stir in the cream or thick coconut milk, and let it simmer for a couple more minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
- Enjoy your Gravy Chicken with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a delicious and comforting meal.
- This Gravy Chicken recipe creates a flavorful, spiced curry that’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for a cozy, satisfying meal.
