Achari Chicken is a popular Indian dish that combines the tangy flavors of traditional pickles with tender, juicy chicken. Achari Chicken Bursting with spices and aromatic herbs, this dish is perfect for those who love bold, rich flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to spice up your weeknight meals, Achari Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe for making restaurant-style Achari Chicken. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 500 grams of chicken (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 cup plain yogurt (curd)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
For the Achari Masala
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds (saunf)
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds (kalonji)
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds (sarson)
- 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds (methi)
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds (jeera)
Other Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and set it aside for 30 minutes. This step ensures the chicken absorbs the flavors and remains tender during cooking.
2. Make the Achari Masala
- Dry roast fennel seeds, nigella seeds, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, and cumin seeds in a pan on low heat.
- Once they release their aroma, grind them coarsely using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. Your achari masala is ready.
3. Cook the Base
- Heat mustard oil in a pan until it starts to smoke lightly, then reduce the heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts separating from the mixture.
4. Add the Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cover the pan and let the chicken cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Incorporate Achari Masala
- Sprinkle the prepared achari masala over the chicken. Mix well to ensure the spices coat the chicken evenly.
- Add garam masala powder and adjust salt to taste.
6. Simmer and Garnish
- Add a splash of water if the curry looks too thick. Let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Achari Chicken pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed basmati rice
- Butter naan
- Jeera rice
- Tandoori roti
For an extra tangy kick, serve it alongside a bowl of onion salad and a dollop of mint yogurt chutney.
Tips for the Perfect Achari Chicken
- Use Mustard Oil: This oil enhances the authentic achari flavor. However, you can substitute it with vegetable oil if needed.
- Fresh Spices: Always use fresh, high-quality spices for the best taste and aroma.
- Marination: Don’t skip marinating the chicken—it’s key to a juicy and flavorful dish.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the chili and garam masala quantities according to your spice tolerance.
Health Benefits of Achari Chicken
- Rich in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
- Digestive Spices: Spices like fennel, cumin, and fenugreek aid in digestion and boost metabolism.
- Low in Calories: When made with minimal oil, Achari Chicken is a healthy choice for a balanced diet.
One Response