Chettinad Chicken Gravy
Chettinad Chicken Gravy is a rich and aromatic South Indian curry from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its freshly roasted spices, peppery taste, and thick masala gravy.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
500 g chicken
3 tbsp oil
2 onions (finely chopped)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
2 green chillies
1 sprig of curry leaves
Salt as needed
Coriander leaves for garnish
For Chettinad Masala
2 tbsp coriander seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp black pepper
5 dry red chillies
1-inch cinnamon
3 cloves
2 cardamoms
2 tbsp grated coconut
1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
Preparation Method
Step 1: Roast the Spices
Dry roast coriander seeds, cumin, fennel, pepper, red chillies, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, coconut, and poppy seeds until aromatic.
Step 2: Grind the Masala
Cool the roasted ingredients and grind them into a smooth paste using a little water.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Heat oil in a kadai or clay pot. Add curry leaves and green chillies. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Step 4: Add Ginger Garlic Paste
Add ginger garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft, and the oil starts separating.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces and salt. Mix well and cook for 5–7 minutes.
Step 7: Add the Ground Masala
Add the prepared Chettinad masala paste and mix thoroughly.
Step 8: Add Water
Pour enough water, depending on the gravy consistency you prefer.
Step 9: Simmer
Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes on medium flame until the chicken becomes tender and the gravy thickens.
Step 10: Garnish
Garnish with coriander leaves and a few curry leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Chettinad Chicken Gravy pairs perfectly with:
Parotta
Idiyappam
Dosa
Steamed rice
Chapati
Tips for Authentic Taste
Freshly roasted spices are the key to Chettinad flavour.
Black pepper gives the signature spicy taste.
Coconut thickens the gravy naturally.
Slow cooking enhances the aroma and richness.
Variations
Chettinad Pepper Chicken Gravy
Coconut Milk Chicken Curry
Village Style Chicken Kulambu
Chettinad Chicken Masala
Enjoy this authentic and spicy Chettinad Chicken Gravy at home!
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