Learn How To Prepare Delicious Chicken Yakhni In 8 Simple Steps

Chicken Yakhni is a traditional South Asian dish renowned for its aromatic and flavorful broth. It features tender chicken pieces simmered in a richly spiced stock infused with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, cardamom, and cloves. The dish is typically made by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger to create a fragrant base, then adding the chicken and simmering it with water and spices until the meat is tender and the broth is deeply flavored. Often garnished with fresh coriander leaves and served with lemon wedges, Chicken Yakhni is cherished for its comforting, savory taste and is commonly enjoyed with steamed rice or naan. The dish highlights the perfect balance of spice and simplicity, making it a beloved choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Chicken Yakhni is a fragrant and flavorful traditional South Asian broth-based dish. It’s known for its aromatic spices and tender chicken, often enjoyed as a light, comforting meal. Here’s a straightforward recipe for Chicken Yakhni:

1. Ingredients

– 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
– 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 4-5 whole black peppercorns
– 4-5 cloves
– 2-3 green cardamom pods
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Toast the Spices:

– In a dry pan, lightly toast the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, cloves, green cardamom pods, and bay leaf until fragrant. Once toasted, grind them into a coarse powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Set aside.

Step 2- Prepare the Chicken:

– Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry. Set aside.

Step 3- Sauté Aromatics:

– In a large pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4- Cook the Chicken:

– Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

Step 5- Add Spices:

– Stir in the ground spice mixture, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to coat the chicken well.

Step 6- Simmer:

– Pour enough water into the pot to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 7- Finish:

– Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the garam masala. Adjust salt and seasoning as needed.

Step 8- Garnish and Serve:

– Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for added freshness.

Chicken Yakhni is often enjoyed with steamed rice or naan. It’s a comforting and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal.