Dahi Chicken, a creamy and flavorful Indian dish, is a summer staple for its refreshing taste and relatively quick preparation time. The tender chicken, marinated in a rich yogurt-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, is a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and savory notes. This culinary delight is surprisingly easy to master, even for novice cooks, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The unique blend of spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting, a perfect accompaniment to fluffy rice or naan bread.
This summer, elevate your culinary game with our simple yet irresistible Dahi Chicken recipe. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times; this recipe focuses on delivering exceptional flavor with minimal fuss. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get started with our easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide below.
Tools Needed
- sieve
- bowl
- frying pan
- refrigerator
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 kg
- Lemon: 1/2 large (or 1 small)
- Yogurt (Curd): 400 grams
- Green chilies: 4
- Salt
- Pepper
- Crushed red chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground red chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Roasted and ground cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Ginger garlic paste: 2 tablespoons
- Oil: 1/2 cup
- Bay leaves: 2
- Whole garam masala (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, black cardamom, peppercorns)
- Onions: 3 medium
- Coriander powder: 1 tablespoon
- Green coriander: handful
- Garam masala powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate Chicken
- Wash chicken thoroughly and place in a sieve to drain.
- Add lemon juice, yogurt, green chilies, salt, pepper, crushed red chili powder, ground red chili powder, turmeric powder, black pepper, cumin seeds, and ginger garlic paste. Mix well.
- Refrigerate marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes (longer is better).
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook Chicken
- Heat oil in a pan. Add bay leaves and whole garam masala. Fry for 30-40 seconds.
- Add finely chopped onions and fry until golden brown on medium heat.
- Add marinated chicken and coriander powder to the pan. Stir well.
- Cook on high flame for 10-12 minutes, until the water evaporates and the oil separates.
Step 3. Simmer and Develop the Gravy
- Add water (as needed) to make gravy. Reduce heat to low-medium.
- Simmer for another 10-12 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in garam masala powder, green chilies (optional), and green coriander. Mix gently.
- Simmer on low flame for 2 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh, not too sour, yogurt.
- Don't use black pepper powder; freshly ground is better for flavor and color.
- Don't overcook the onions; light golden brown is ideal.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
- Cook the chicken on high flame to evaporate excess water; avoid low or medium flame.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in or boneless chicken for this recipe?
Both work well! Bone-in chicken will be slightly more flavorful but will take longer to cook. Boneless is quicker and easier.
2. What can I substitute for Greek yogurt if I don't have any?
Plain whole milk yogurt or even sour cream can be used as a substitute, though the flavor might be slightly different.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more green chilies, red chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to adjust the spice level to your preference.
This Summer Special Dahi Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the refreshing taste and the satisfying aroma of this flavorful dish, a true testament to the beauty of Indian cuisine. Now go ahead and savor this culinary delight!