Chettinad Chicken Curry Recipe: Bold, Spicy, and Delicious

Chettinad Chicken Curry is a fiery and flavorful dish hailing from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, South India. Known for its robust spice blends and rich, aromatic flavors, this curry is a feast for the senses. Perfect for spice lovers, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or Indian breads like naan and roti.

What Is Chettinad Chicken Curry?

Chettinad Chicken Curry is a traditional South Indian dish characterized by its unique blend of spices and coconut milk, which creates a creamy yet spicy base. The roasted and ground Chettinad spice mix is the star, lending the curry its distinct taste. Whether prepared with bone-in or boneless chicken, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic flavors: The Chettinad spice blend offers a true taste of South India.
• Versatile pairing: Enjoy with rice, naan, or even dosa.
• Easy to customize: Adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Rich and hearty: Coconut milk adds creaminess and balances the heat.

Ingredients

For the Curry:

• 1½ lbs (680 g) chicken (bone-in or boneless), cut into pieces
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• ½ cup (120 ml) coconut milk
• 2 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

For the Chettinad Spice Blend:

• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 3 cloves
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2 green cardamom pods
• ½ cup (50 g) grated coconut (dry or fresh)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chettinad Spice Blend

1. Heat a dry pan over medium heat. Add coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, red chilies, black peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods.
2. Roast until the spices are aromatic.
3. Add grated coconut and roast until golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Grind the mixture into a fine powder using a spice grinder or blender. Set aside.

Cooking the Curry Base

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
4. Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Add chicken pieces to the pan, followed by turmeric powder and salt.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.

Simmering the Curry

1. Add the prepared Chettinad spice blend to the pan and mix well to coat the chicken.
2. Pour in coconut milk and enough water to achieve your desired curry consistency.
3. Cover the pan and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the curry thickens.

Serving the Curry

1. Garnish the curry with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the curry with steamed basmati rice for a comforting meal.
• Serve with flaky parathas or buttery naan for a richer experience.
• Add a side of cucumber raita to cool down the heat.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the curry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu, paneer, or vegetables like potatoes and bell peppers.
• Gluten-free: Ensure that all ingredients, especially the spices, are gluten-free.
• Spice adjustment: Use fewer chilies or mild red chili powder for a less spicy version.
• Richness boost: Add a splash of heavy cream for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Chettinad spice blend?
Yes, but homemade offers a fresher and more authentic flavor.

Can I make this curry dairy-free?
It already is! The creaminess comes from coconut milk.

What’s the best way to grind spices?
A coffee grinder or a high-speed blender works well for fine grinding.

Chettinad Chicken Curry is a perfect dish for anyone seeking bold flavors and an authentic taste of South Indian cuisine. With its aromatic spice blend and creamy coconut base, it’s a surefire hit at family dinners or festive gatherings. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out for you!

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