Chicken Changezi is renowned for its unique blend of spices and creamy texture, and will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Delhi. Named after the 13th-century Mongol ruler, Genghis Khan (Changez Khan in India), this dish is a beautiful amalgamation of rich Mughlai flavours and robust North Indian spices. It’s said that the dish was created to cater to the Mongol ruler’s love for aromatic and richly spiced food.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this murgh changezi is your gateway to a delectable dining experience.
INGREDIENTS FOR CHICKEN CHANGEZI RECIPE:
→ FreshToHome antibiotic residue-free curry cut chicken: 1 kg
→ Yogurt: 1 cup
→ Ginger garlic paste: 2 tbsps
→ Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
→ Red chilli powder: 2 tsps
→ Garam masala: 1 tsp
→ Onions, 2 large, finely chopped
→ Tomatoes: 3, pureed
→ Heavy cream: 1 cup
→ Almonds: ¼ cup, blanched and ground into a paste
→ Butter: 2 tbsps
→ Vegetable oil: 3 tbsps
→ Cumin seeds: 1 tsp
→ Bay leaves: 2 nos
→ Green cardamom pods: 4 to 5 nos → Cinnamon stick: 1 no
→ Kasuri methi: 1 tsp
→ Salt to taste
STEP 1
MARINATION MAGIC → Soak in the spice:
In a large bowl, combine the yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, and salt. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful chicken changezi.
STEP 2
TASTE ALCHEMY → Saute the spice:
Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, bay leaves, green cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Sauté until the spices release their fragrant aroma.
STEP 3
SIZZLING SAVIORINESS → Prepare your flavour base:
Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and cook until they turn golden brown. This step is key to building the rich base of your chicken changezi masala. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a few more minutes until the raw smell disappears.
STEP 4
TANGY TANGO → Introduce the tomatoes:
Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook until the oil begins to separate from the masala. This indicates that the tomatoes are well-cooked and the flavours have melded together beautifully.
STEP 5
CREAMY GOODNESS → Create that lip-smacking texture:
Stir in the almond paste and heavy cream. This will give your chicken changezi its signature creamy texture. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
STEP 6
SIMMERING MAGIC → Slowly cook the chicken:
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, stirring well to ensure they are evenly coated with the rich, creamy sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for about 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process ensures that the chicken absorbs all the wonderful flavours of the changezi chicken recipe.
STEP 7
THE FINAL TOUCH → Add the flavour elevators:
Finish off with a generous dollop of butter and a sprinkle of kasuri methi. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This final touch elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
STEP 8
PLATED INDULGENCE → Dress to impress:
Serve your murgh changezi hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. Pair it with butter naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice to soak up all that glorious chicken changezi masala. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a side of cool, refreshing raita.
Chicken Changezi Tips and Reminders
- Marinate Well:
The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your chicken will be. - Use Fresh Spices:
Freshly ground spices can make a significant difference in the flavour. - Cook Slowly:
Patience is key. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and absorb all the flavours.
That’s all for an easy, fun changezi chicken recipe that captures the essence of this classic dish. From the marinade to the final buttery finish, every step is designed to bring out the rich, aromatic flavours of murgh changezi. So, gather your chicken changezi masala ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to impress your friends and family with a dish that’s as delightful as your culinary journey. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the tantalising aromas of Chicken Changezi!