Prepare to transport your taste buds to the opulent courts of Mughal emperors with this exquisite Mughlai Chicken with Almonds recipe! Imagine a dish so rich and creamy, so perfectly spiced, that it will make you feel like culinary royalty with every single bite. This legendary Indian delicacy combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and the luxurious crunch of almonds in a sauce that's so irresistible, you'll want to lick the plate clean. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious food adventurer, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 2 onions, finely sliced
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and garam masala in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Add finely sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and caramelized, which takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the chicken to release its moisture and start browning, which takes approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato puree and ground almonds, mixing well to create a rich, creamy sauce. Reduce heat to low and cover the pan, letting the chicken simmer gently.
- Cook the chicken for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The chicken should become tender and the sauce should thicken to a rich, creamy consistency.
- Check the chicken for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The meat should be fully cooked and easily separating from the bone.
- Garnish with additional toasted almond slivers and fresh chopped cilantro. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This ensures deep flavor penetration and incredibly tender meat.
- Patience with Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions. Golden brown, not burnt, is the secret to a rich, sweet base flavor.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Simmer the chicken on low heat to develop a thick, creamy sauce and ensure the meat is perfectly cooked.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh yogurt and high-quality garam masala for the most authentic and vibrant flavors.
- Garnish with Flair: The final touch of toasted almond slivers and fresh cilantro adds texture and a burst of fresh flavor.Pro Tip: Serve with warm naan or fragrant basmati rice to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
