Dhaba Chicken

Dhaba Chicken, a staple in Indian roadside eateries called “Dhabas,” is renowned for its rustic, fiery flavor that captures the essence of traditional Indian cooking. This dish is a celebration of spices, herbs, and chicken cooked to perfection, often in a thick, onion-tomato based gravy that clings to every piece of meat, infusing it with an irresistible aroma and taste. The charm of Dhaba Chicken lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavors, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the heartiness of Indian cuisine.

The appeal of this dish extends beyond its taste; it’s about the experience. Eating Dhaba Chicken transports you to the bustling roadsides of India, where such meals are enjoyed with laughter and good company. It’s not just a dish; it’s a journey through India’s culinary heritage, where each bite tells a story of tradition, spices, and the warmth of a home-cooked meal.

Dhaba Chicken

Dhaba Chicken is more than just a dish; it's an experience that brings the taste of India's roadside eateries right to your dining table. The combination of spices, tender chicken, and the rich gravy creates a delightful symphony of flavors that's hard to resist.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 5

Keyword Dhaba Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
• 3 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1/4 cup yogurt, whisked
• 1/2 cup mustard oil (or any cooking oil)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
• Water as needed

Step-wise Process

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
2. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 2 minutes or until the raw smell disappears.
3. Add the chicken pieces and cook on high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is no longer pink.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the tomato puree and salt. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the oil begins to separate from the gravy.
6. Add the whisked yogurt, mix well, and cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Pour in enough water to make the gravy to your desired consistency. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
8. Garnish with garam masala and fresh coriander leaves. Stir well and remove from heat.

Important Points

• Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the spices during the sautéing process to enhance its flavor.
• Cooking the onions until golden brown is crucial as it forms the base of the gravy’s flavor.
• Adjust the level of spices and water according to your taste and preferred gravy thickness.

How to serve Dhaba Chicken

Serve Dhaba Chicken hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. The rich gravy and tender pieces of chicken make it a perfect main course that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Dhaba Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings the taste of India’s roadside eateries right to your dining table. The combination of spices, tender chicken, and the rich gravy creates a delightful symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your craving for authentic Indian cuisine. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that promises to be as enjoyable as it is delicious.

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