- Chicken Handi is a rich and creamy Pakistani curry cooked with tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, yogurt, cream, and aromatic spices. Traditionally prepared in a clay handi, this dish is famous for its silky texture, mildly spicy flavor, and irresistible aroma. It pairs perfectly with naan, tandoori roti, or jeera rice, making it a favorite for family dinners and festive occasions.
Recipe Information
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 Minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 Minutes |
| Total Time | 1 Hour |
| Cuisine | Pakistani |
| Course | Main Course |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 5 People |
| Calories | 480 kcal |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 kg |
| Yogurt | 1 Cup |
| Fresh Cream | ½ Cup |
| Tomatoes | 4 Large |
| Onion | 1 Medium |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 2 tbsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Cooking Oil | 3 tbsp |
| Green Chilies | 4 |
| Fresh Coriander | ½ Cup |
| Ginger Julienne | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To Taste |
| Red Chili Powder | 2 tsp |
| Coriander Powder | 2 tsp |
| Cumin Powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam Masala | 1 tsp |
Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and cut the chicken into medium-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and tomatoes. Measure all the spices, yogurt, and cream before you begin cooking. Preparing everything in advance helps the recipe come together smoothly and ensures even cooking.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil and butter in a handi or deep pan. Add the chopped onion and cook until light golden. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, then add the chicken pieces. Cook for 8–10 minutes until the chicken changes color and begins to brown slightly.
Step 3 – Make the Creamy Gravy
- Add chopped tomatoes and all the spices. Cook until the tomatoes soften completely and the oil begins to separate. Mix in the yogurt gradually while stirring continuously, then add the fresh cream. Simmer on low heat until the gravy becomes smooth, creamy, and rich.
Step 4 – Final Garnishing
- Finish the dish by adding green chilies, chopped coriander, ginger julienne, and a small drizzle of fresh cream. Let it simmer for another 3–5 minutes so the flavors blend perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
- Chicken Handi is best enjoyed fresh and hot with butter naan, garlic naan, tandoori roti, or steamed jeera rice. Add cucumber raita, fresh salad, and lemon wedges on the side for a complete restaurant-style meal.
| Best Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Butter Naan | Perfect for creamy gravy |
| Garlic Naan | Rich garlic flavor |
| Jeera Rice | Light and aromatic |
| Raita | Balances the spices |
| Fresh Salad | Adds freshness and crunch |
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