Simple Chicken Do Pyaza

Chicken Do Pyaza is a classic dish from the Indian subcontinent, celebrated for its unique flavor profile that comes from a generous use of onions in two different forms, giving the dish its name ‘Do Pyaza’ which literally means ‘two onions’. This culinary delight combines tender pieces of chicken with a rich and aromatic gravy thickened with onions, tomatoes, and a carefully selected blend of spices. The onions are added at two stages during cooking, first as a base for the gravy and then as a garnish, providing a sweet and slightly crunchy contrast to the savory chicken.
The charm of Chicken Do Pyaza lies in its balanced flavors and the delightful texture of the onions that melt into the gravy and then surprise you with their presence in the final dish. It’s a testament to the culinary ingenuity of Indian cooking, where ingredients are used in creative ways to enhance the depth and complexity of flavors. This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight, with the golden chicken pieces nestled in a vibrant, onion-rich sauce, making it a popular choice for festive occasions and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
- 3 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 large onions, cut into cubes
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 cup yogurt, whisked
- 4 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 2-3 green cardamoms
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
- Water as needed
Step-wise Process
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamoms. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
- Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears.
- Introduce the chicken pieces to the pan and cook on high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are no longer pink.
- Reduce the heat and add turmeric, coriander, and chili powder. Mix well to ensure the chicken is coated evenly with the spices.
- Pour in the tomato puree and salt. Mix well and cook for 10 minutes, or until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Add the whisked yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of water (adjust according to the desired consistency of the gravy) and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
- In a separate pan, lightly fry the cubed onions in a tablespoon of oil until they are soft and translucent but not brown. Add these onions to the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish with garam masala and fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Servings
This recipe of Chicken Do Pyaza serves 4-6 people.
Time Require to make Chicken Do Pyaza
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Important Points to remember while making Chicken Do Pyaza
- The key to this dish is the onions; make sure to cook the first batch until golden brown to develop a deep flavor base.
- Adding the yogurt slowly and stirring continuously is crucial to prevent curdling, which can affect the texture of the gravy.
- The second batch of onions should be just soft enough to add a slight crunch without being raw, enhancing the dish’s texture and flavor complexity.
How to Serve
Serve Chicken Do Pyaza hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. The rich gravy and succulent chicken pieces make it a satisfying main course that pairs beautifully with Indian bread or rice, ideal for a hearty meal.

Chicken Do Pyaza is a celebration of flavors and textures, embodying the richness of Indian cuisine through its inventive use of onions and spices. This dish offers a comforting warmth and a delightful dining experience, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special celebration or a simple family dinner, Chicken Do Pyaza is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and beautiful presentation. Enjoy the process of creating this culinary masterpiece and the joy it brings to your table.
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