Kadai Chicken

Kadai Chicken, a jewel of Indian cuisine, is a vibrant and aromatic dish that finds its roots in the Indian subcontinent, specifically in the Northern regions. Known for its rich blend of spices, tender chicken pieces, and a thick, delectable gravy, this dish is a celebration of flavors that dance on the palate. The name “Kadai Chicken” comes from the “Kadai” or “Karahi,” which is a thick, circular, and deep cooking pot used in Indian cooking. This utensil is key to the preparation of this dish, as it enhances the flavors by evenly distributing heat and allowing the spices to infuse the chicken with a depth of taste that is hard to match.
What makes Kadai Chicken stand out is its preparation method and the unique blend of spices, including the kadai masala—a freshly ground spice mix that gives the dish its signature aroma and taste. The combination of fresh ingredients, like tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, with the rich texture of the gravy, makes it a perfect dish to be enjoyed with Indian bread or rice. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together the essence of traditional Indian cooking with the comfort of home-style food.
Ingredients Required

- 500g chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 2 teaspoons coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons kadai masala (freshly ground mixture of coriander seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and other spices)
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
- 1 inch ginger, julienned, for garnish
- Fresh cream (optional), for garnish
Stepwise Process
- Heat the Oil: In a kadai or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Sauté the Onions and Bell Pepper: Add chopped onions and bell pepper to the pan. Sauté until they are soft and slightly golden.
- Add the Pureed Tomatoes: Stir in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil begins to separate from the sides of the mixture.
- Incorporate Spices: Add ginger-garlic paste, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and half of the kadai masala. Cook until the raw smell of the spices goes away.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Mix well to ensure the chicken is coated with the spice mixture. Cover and cook on medium heat for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
- Final Touches: Sprinkle the remaining kadai masala and garam masala over the chicken. Mix well. Cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, julienned ginger, and a dollop of fresh cream, if desired.
Servings
- This recipe serves 4 people.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Important Points
- Always use fresh chicken and ingredients for the best flavor.
- The key to a great Kadai Chicken is in the kadai masala. Making it fresh enhances the flavor significantly.
- Adjust the chili powder and kadai masala according to your taste and spice preference.
- Cooking on a medium flame allows the chicken to absorb the spices better, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Serving Kadai Chicken
Serve Kadai Chicken hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves, julienned ginger, and a swirl of cream, alongside fluffy naan, roti, or steamed rice. The rich gravy and tender chicken make it a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Final Thoughts
Kadai Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a symphony of flavors that showcases the best of Indian cooking. Its vibrant color, tantalizing aroma, and the perfect blend of spices make it a favorite among food lovers. Whether it’s a family dinner, a special occasion, or a craving for something deliciously comforting, Kadai Chicken is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making it, and relish every bite of this exquisite Indian classic.
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