Chettinad Pepper Chicken
Chettinad Pepper Chicken is a fiery and flavourful South Indian dish from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu. This recipe is famous for its bold black pepper flavour, roasted spices, and aromatic curry leaves.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
500 g chicken
2 tbsp oil or coconut oil
2 onions (finely sliced)
1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
2 green chillies
1 sprig of curry leaves
Salt as needed
Coriander leaves for garnish
For Pepper Masala
2 tbsp black peppercorns
1 tbsp coriander seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds
4 dry red chillies
1 small cinnamon stick
3 cloves
2 cardamoms
Optional Ingredients
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp lemon juice
Preparation Method
Step 1: Roast the Spices
Dry roast black pepper, coriander seeds, cumin, fennel, red chillies, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom until aromatic.
Step 2: Grind the Masala
Allow the roasted spices to cool and grind into a coarse powder.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Heat oil in a kadai. Add curry leaves and green chillies. Add sliced 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: Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 8–10 minutes.
Step 6: Add Pepper Masala
Sprinkle the ground pepper masala over the chicken and mix thoroughly.
Step 7: Roast the Chicken
Cook uncovered on low flame until the masala coats the chicken well and the dish becomes semi-dry.
Step 8: Final Garnish
Add coriander leaves and a few fresh curry leaves. Sprinkle lemon juice if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Chettinad Pepper Chicken tastes excellent with:
Parotta
Rasam rice
Chapati
Dosa
Ghee rice
Tips for Best Taste
Use freshly crushed black pepper for a strong flavour.
Coconut oil gives an authentic Chettinad aroma.
Slow roasting improves texture and taste.
Curry leaves add extra fragrance.
Variations
Pepper Chicken Gravy
Chicken Sukka
Dry Pepper Fry
Village Style Pepper Chicken
Enjoy this spicy and delicious Chettinad Pepper Chicken at home!
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