Handi Chicken Recipe

Handi Chicken Recipe (Restaurant-Style)

Handi chicken is a rich, creamy, and aromatic Pakistani and North Indian curry cooked with tender chicken, yoghurt, tomatoes, and flavourful spices. It pairs perfectly with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 3 medium tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
• 1 cup plain yogurt, whisked
• 2 teaspoons red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup fresh cream
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
• 2–3 green chilies, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat oil or ghee in a handi or deep pan. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown.

Step 2: Add Ginger and Garlic

Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate.

Step 4: Add the Spices

Mix in the red chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces and cook over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes until they change colour and are lightly browned.

Step 6: Stir in the Yogurt

Reduce the heat and gradually add the whisked yoghurt while stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Cook for 8–10 minutes.

Step 7: Simmer

Cover the pan and let the chicken cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the gravy becomes too thick.

Step 8: Finish the Curry

Add the fresh cream, butter, garam masala, crushed kasuri methi, green chillies, and chopped coriander. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with:

• Butter naan
• Garlic naan
• Tandoori roti
• Chapati
• Jeera rice
• Plain steamed basmati rice

Tips for the Best Handi Chicken

• Use bone-in chicken for a richer flavour.
• Cook on low heat to develop a deep, authentic taste.
• Fresh cream gives the curry a smooth, restaurant-style finish.
• Ghee adds extra richness and aroma.
• Garnish with extra coriander, cream, and sliced green chillies before serving.

Enjoy this delicious handi chicken with warm naan for a comforting and flavourful meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.