Chicken Chettinad is a popular South Indian dish known for its bold and fiery flavors. Originating from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, this dish is a harmonious blend of spices that are dry-roasted and ground to make a fresh masala, giving the chicken a deep, aromatic flavor. The spices, such as fennel seeds, peppercorns, and dried red chilies, are balanced by the creaminess of coconut, making it both spicy and savory. Chicken Chettinad is often served with steamed rice or Indian flatbreads, and it’s perfect for those who enjoy complex and robust tastes in their meals.
Chicken Chettinad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
For Chettinad Masala:
- 2 tablespoons grated coconut
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2-3 dried red chilies
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 4-5 cloves
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2 cardamom pods
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chettinad Masala: Dry roast the grated coconut in a pan until it turns golden brown. Set aside. In the same pan, roast the fennel seeds, peppercorns, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, coriander seeds, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom pods until fragrant. Allow them to cool, and then grind along with the roasted coconut to make a smooth paste. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
- Add the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and stir well. Add turmeric powder and salt. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until it begins to brown.
- Incorporate the Masala: Add the ground Chettinad masala to the chicken, mixing it well to coat the chicken with the spices. Add about 1/2 cup of water, cover the pan, and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is done, check the seasoning and adjust salt if needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or Indian flatbreads like chapati or paratha.
Enjoy the rich and spicy flavors of Chicken Chettinad!
