Achari Chicken is a delicious North Indian curry inspired by the tangy and spicy flavours of Indian pickles. The word "Achaar" comes from Hindi and means pickle, which captures the essence of this dish. Tender chicken pieces are marinated and cooked with spices like mustard seeds, fennel, and fenugreek, creating...

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Prep Time
1hr 15min
Cook Time
35min
Total Time
1hr 50min
Chicken Achari  recipe

Ingredients

5 Servings
(1 serving = one portion)

For the Marination

  • 1kg
    boneless chicken (cut into 2-inch pieces)
  • 1tsp
    salt
  • 1tsp
    turmeric powder
  • 1 1/2tbsp
    Kashmiri red chilli powder
  • 1tsp
    black pepper powder
  • 1tsp
    chaat masala
  • 1 1/2tbsp
    achari masala powder
  • 1tbsp
    ginger-garlic paste
  • 4piece
    green chillies (slit lengthwise)
  • 1cup
    yogurt
  • 3tbsp
    mustard oil
  • 1tbsp
    lemon juice
  • 1/2cup
    tomato puree
  • 1tbsp
    kasuri methi (crushed)
  • 1cup
    water

For the Tempering

  • 2tbsp
    oil
  • 1tsp
    black mustard seeds
  • 3clove
    garlic (crushed)
  • 2piece
    dry red chilli
  • 1tsp
    achari masala powder (homemade)
  • 1sprig
    curry leaves (optional)

How to make Chicken Achari

Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, turmeric, Kashmiri red chilli powder, black pepper, chaat masala, and Homemade Achari Masala.

  2. Add the ginger-garlic paste, slit green chillies, yogurt, mustard oil, lemon juice, tomato puree, and crushed kasuri methi.

  3. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and marinate for at least 1 hour or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavours.

    Step 1.1: Mix well to coat the chicken evenly

Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a large pot over high heat and add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade.

  2. Sauté the chicken on high heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. Add water and bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the chicken is tender and the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

    Step 2.1: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking

Prepare the Tempering

  1. In a small pan, heat oil over medium heat.

  2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

  3. Add crushed garlic cloves and sauté until golden and fragrant.

  4. Add the dry red chilli, achari masala, curry leaves (if using), and sauté for 30 seconds to release the aromas.

    Step 3.1: Add the dry red chilli, achari masala, curry leaves (if using), and sauté for 30 seconds to release the aromas
  5. Pour the tempering over the cooked chicken and stir well.

  6. Simmer the dish for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavours. Adjust seasoning if needed.

    Step 3.1: Simmer the dish for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavours

Serve

  1. Serve the tangy and aromatic Achari Chicken hot with naan, parathas, or steamed rice. Enjoy!

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

349.0kcal (17.45%)

Protein

31.0g (62%)

Carbs

10.0g (3.64%)

Sugars

2.4g (4.8%)

Healthy Fat

13.1g

Unhealthy Fat

3.8g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Boneless chicken cooks fast; avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.

  2. You can use bone-in chicken for more flavour.

  3. Adjust chillies to match your spice preference.

  4. Homemade Achari masala adds fresh flavour, but store-bought works too.

FAQS

  1. How long should I marinate chicken for Achari Chicken to enhance the flavor?

    For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. However, if you have time, refrigerating it overnight allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful Achari Chicken.

  2. What are some good side dishes to serve with Achari Chicken?

    Achari Chicken pairs wonderfully with naan, parathas, or steamed rice. You can also serve it with a side of raita or a fresh salad to balance the spiciness of the dish.

  3. Can I make Achari Chicken without homemade Achari masala?

    Yes, you can use store-bought Achari masala for convenience. It will still yield delicious results, although homemade masala often provides a fresher and more vibrant flavor.

  4. How should I store leftover Achari Chicken?

    Store any leftover Achari Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

  5. What dietary restrictions does Achari Chicken accommodate?

    Achari Chicken is suitable for non-vegetarians and can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the spices and other ingredients used are gluten-free. However, it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to the chicken and yogurt.

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Leena Kohli

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