Discover the authentic Chicken Karahi recipe, a flavorful Pakistani and North Indian dish made with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based gravy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

If you’re a fan of bold, spicy, and aromatic dishes, this Chicken Karahi recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. A staple in Pakistani and North Indian cuisine, Chicken Karahi is made with succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a wok-like pan called a karahi, alongside a medley of spices, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Whether served with naan, roti, or steamed rice, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Some variations like Lahori Chicken Karahi or Chicken Saag offer unique flavors while staying rooted in the same culinary traditions.

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How to Make Chicken Karahi

Making Chicken Karahi is surprisingly simple and requires minimal ingredients. The key to this dish lies in its bold flavors, achieved by using freshly ground spices and cooking the chicken until it absorbs all the rich, tangy flavors of the gravy. Let’s break down the process step-by-step. If you’re looking for Chicken Karahi near me, you’ll often find it at Pakistani or Indian restaurants specializing in traditional dishes like Chicken Vindaloo or Chicken Jalfrezi.

Ingredients for Chicken Karahi Recipe

For the Chicken Karahi:

1 ½ lbs (700g) chicken, bone-in, cut into pieces
4 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
1 medium onion, finely sliced
2 cups fresh tomatoes, finely chopped or blended
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt to taste

For Garnish:

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ginger, julienned
Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the Oil:

In a large karahi or deep pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.

Add the Chicken:

Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken starts to turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Cook the Onions:

In the same pan, add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

Add Ginger-Garlic Paste:

Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Spices:

Stir in the chopped or blended tomatoes. Add red chili powder, turmeric, ground coriander, and cumin seeds. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil separates from the tomato mixture. For authentic Chicken Karahi masala, consider using freshly ground spices for a richer flavor.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Add the Chicken Back:

Return the sautéed chicken to the pan. Mix well to coat the chicken with the tomato and spice mixture.

Simmer the Karahi:

Cover the pan and let the chicken simmer on low to medium heat for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Finish with Garam Masala and Green Chilies:

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Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, stir in the garam masala and green chilies. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Garnish:

Top the Chicken Karahi with freshly chopped cilantro and julienned ginger.

Serve:

Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. This recipe pairs well with sides like Chicken Karaage or Chicken Saag for a complete feast.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Karahi

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and ginger-garlic paste elevate the flavor of the dish.
Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken adds more depth and richness to the curry.
Control the Spice Level: Adjust the red chili powder and green chilies based on your spice tolerance.
Don’t Rush: Let the chicken simmer to absorb all the spices for a more flavorful dish.

What to Serve with Chicken Karahi

Breads: Pair it with naan, tandoori roti, or paratha.
Rice: Steamed basmati rice or jeera rice are perfect complements.
Salad: Serve with a side of cucumber, onion, and mint salad for a refreshing contrast. Add dishes like Chicken Jalfrezi or Chicken Vindaloo for variety.

Ingredient Substitutes for Chicken Karahi

Chicken Substitute: Use boneless chicken or even lamb/mutton for a variation.
Tomato Substitute: Canned tomatoes can be used in place of fresh ones, though fresh is preferred.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian twist. If you enjoy fusion dishes, try incorporating techniques from Chicken Karaage or other international recipes.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Karahi recipe is a delightful combination of bold spices and tender chicken, making it a must-try for lovers of South Asian cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is packed with flavor and sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the taste of authentic Chicken Karahi! For more ideas, explore other classics like Chicken Saag, Chicken Vindaloo, or Lahori Chicken Karahi recipe.