പുളിയിട്ട ചിക്കൻ

പുളിയിട്ട ചിക്കൻ is a medium Indian recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Salt and Pepper Food Channel on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 50 min | Total: 1 hr 25 min

Cost: $13.27 total, $3.32 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg Whole Chicken (cut into 8 pieces, skin on)
  • 2 tablespoons Tamarind Paste (store‑bought or homemade from tamarind pulp)
  • 2 large Onion (thinly sliced)
  • 2 medium Tomato (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons Ginger‑Garlic Paste (freshly made or jarred)
  • 2 pieces Green Chili (slit lengthwise, adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons Red Chili Powder (adjust for spice level)
  • 2 teaspoons Coriander Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
  • 12 pieces Curry Leaves (fresh)
  • 3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (or coconut oil for authentic flavor)
  • to taste Salt
  • 2 cups Water (adjust for desired gravy thickness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Slice the onions, chop the tomatoes, slit the green chilies, and measure all spices. In a small bowl, mix turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Marinate Chicken

    Place chicken pieces in a large bowl, add ginger‑garlic paste, half of the spice mix, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat and let rest for 10 minutes.

    Time: PT10M

  3. Temper Mustard Seeds

    Heat oil in the pot over medium heat (≈180°C). Add mustard seeds; when they start to pop, add fresh curry leaves.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: 180°C

  4. Sauté Onions

    Add sliced onions to the pot and sauté until golden brown, stirring occasionally.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: 180°C

  5. Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Stir in chopped tomatoes, the remaining spice mix, and slit green chilies. Cook until tomatoes soften and oil begins to separate.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 180°C

  6. Incorporate Tamarind

    Add tamarind paste and 2 cups of water, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: 180°C

  7. Add Chicken

    Gently place the marinated chicken pieces into the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low‑medium.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 180°C

  8. Simmer Until Tender

    Let the curry simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.

    Time: PT25M

    Temperature: 180°C

  9. Finish and Serve

    Taste and adjust salt or tamarind for balance. Garnish with a few fresh curry leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or flatbread.

    Time: PT3M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
10 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Dairy-Free

Last updated: March 22, 2026

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പുളിയിട്ട ചിക്കൻ

Recipe by Salt and Pepper Food Channel

A tangy, aromatic Kerala‑style chicken curry made with tamarind, fresh spices, and curry leaves. The sourness of tamarind balances the heat of chilies for a comforting main dish perfect with rice or flatbread.

MediumIndianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
25m
Prep
45m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 20m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$13.27
Total cost
$3.32
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Tempering mustard seeds and curry leaves without burning them.
  • Balancing tamarind acidity with salt and water to achieve the right sourness.
  • Ensuring chicken is cooked through but remains juicy; avoid over‑cooking.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw chicken with clean hands and sanitize all surfaces to avoid cross‑contamination.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot pot; oil can splatter during tempering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Kerala Tamarind Chicken Curry in South Indian cuisine?

A

Kerala Tamarind Chicken Curry, known locally as "Puli Kozhi Curry," reflects the coastal state's love for sour flavors derived from tamarind and coconut. Historically, tamarind was used to preserve meat and add a refreshing tang that balanced the region’s hot climate and abundant spices.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Tamarind Chicken Curry in Kerala cuisine?

A

In northern Kerala, the curry often includes coconut milk for a richer texture, while southern coastal versions rely solely on tamarind and mustard seeds. Some families add roasted peanuts or fenugreek seeds for extra depth.

cultural
Q

How is authentic Kerala Tamarind Chicken Curry traditionally served in Kerala households?

A

It is typically served hot with steamed white rice, appam (rice pancakes), or Kerala parotta. A side of pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber raita often accompanies the meal.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations is Tamarind Chicken Curry traditionally prepared in Kerala culture?

A

The dish is popular during festivals like Onam and Vishu, as well as at family gatherings and weddings where a tangy, hearty curry complements the elaborate feast.

cultural
Q

What makes Kerala Tamarind Chicken Curry special or unique in Indian cuisine?

A

Its distinctive sour‑spicy profile, achieved by balancing tamarind with mustard seeds and curry leaves, sets it apart from other Indian chicken curries that rely on tomato or yogurt bases.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Kerala Tamarind Chicken Curry at home?

A

Common errors include burning the mustard seeds, over‑cooking the chicken until it becomes dry, and adding too much tamarind which can overpower the dish. Follow the tempering step carefully and taste the gravy before final simmering.

technical
Q

Why does this Tamarind Chicken Curry recipe use mustard seeds for tempering instead of cumin seeds?

A

Mustard seeds provide a sharp, nutty pop that complements the sour tamarind, whereas cumin would lend an earthier flavor more common in North Indian curries. The traditional Kerala method favors mustard for its bright finish.

technical
Q

Can I make Kerala Tamarind Chicken Curry ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the curry improves after a few hours as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Kerala Tamarid Chicken Curry is done cooking?

A

The chicken should be tender and coated in a glossy, slightly thickened gravy with a deep reddish‑brown hue. The oil should separate faintly on the surface, indicating the spices are fully cooked.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Salt and Pepper Food Channel specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Salt and Pepper Food Channel focuses on easy‑to‑follow Indian home‑cooking tutorials, highlighting regional flavors, quick weeknight meals, and step‑by‑step techniques for both beginners and experienced cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Salt and Pepper Food Channel's approach to Kerala cuisine differ from other Indian cooking channels?

A

Salt and Pepper Food Channel emphasizes authentic regional ingredients like tamarind and curry leaves while simplifying complex steps for home cooks, often providing budget‑friendly ingredient swaps and clear visual cues that set it apart from more elaborate or restaurant‑style channels.

channel

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