Chicken Changezi is a rich and flavorful Mughlai dish, known for its creamy, aromatic gravy with a hint of spices. This dish pairs perfectly with naan, roti, or steamed rice and is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
For Marination:
- 1 kg chicken (bone-in or boneless), cut into medium pieces
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For Gravy:
- 3 medium onions, finely sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cashews, soaked and blended into a smooth paste
- 1/2 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
Garnish:
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Ginger juliennes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, lemon juice, and salt.
- Add the chicken pieces and coat them well with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook until the chicken is lightly browned and partially cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
- In the same pan, add ghee or oil if needed and heat it.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and the oil starts separating.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Stir in the cashew paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the partially cooked chicken to the gravy along with slit green chilies and mix well.
- Add water as needed to adjust the consistency of the gravy. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Finish the Gravy
- Add cream, garam masala, and kasuri methi. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and ginger juliennes if desired.
- Serve hot with naan, paratha, or steamed rice.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Changezi
- Marination Time: Longer marination enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Cashew Paste: Soak the cashews in warm water for 10-15 minutes before blending for a smooth paste.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies to suit your taste.
- Creamy Gravy: For an extra creamy texture, you can add a little more cream or milk.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
Chicken Changezi is a luxurious and aromatic dish that brings the essence of Mughlai cuisine to your table. Enjoy this indulgent recipe for your next special meal!