Chettinad Chicken
Chettinad Chicken is one of the most famous dishes from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu. This recipe is known for its bold spices, roasted masala, and rich flavour.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
500 g chicken
2 tbsp oil
2 onions (finely chopped)
2 tomatoes (chopped)
1 sprig of curry leaves
Salt as needed
Coriander leaves for garnish
For the Chettinad Masala
2 tbsp coriander seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp black pepper
4–5 dry red chillies
1-inch cinnamon
3 cloves
2 cardamoms
2 tbsp grated coconut
Ginger Garlic Paste
1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
Preparation Method
Step 1: Roast the Spices
Dry roast coriander seeds, cumin, fennel, pepper, red chillies, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and grated coconut until aromatic.
Step 2: Grind the Masala
Allow the roasted ingredients to cool and grind into a smooth paste with a little water.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Heat oil in a kadai. Add curry leaves and chopped onions. 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 mushy.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces and salt. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes.
Step 7: Add Chettinad Masala
Add the ground masala paste and enough water for a gravy consistency.
Step 8: Simmer
Cover and cook on medium flame for 20–25 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and the oil separates.
Step 9: Garnish
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Chettinad Chicken pairs perfectly with:
Parotta
Steamed rice
Dosa
Idiyappam
Chapati
Tips for Best Taste
Freshly roasted spices give authentic Chettinad flavour.
Black pepper adds the signature spiciness.
Coconut enhances richness and texture.
Slow cooking improves the taste.
Variations
Chettinad Chicken Fry
Chettinad Chicken Gravy
Chettinad Pepper Chicken
Chettinad Chicken Biryani
Enjoy this spicy and flavourful Chettinad Chicken recipe at home!
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