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Punjabi Style Chicken Curry

Recipe by Chef Ajay Kumar

A rustic, authentic Punjabi‑style chicken curry made with marinated chicken, caramelized onions, ghee, yogurt and a blend of aromatic spices. The sauce is rich, creamy and perfectly spiced, ideal for a hearty family dinner.

MediumIndianServes 4

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Source Video
19m
Prep
24m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
53m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$10.98
Total cost
$2.75
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Dice and marinate the chicken
  • Temper spices in ghee
  • Bloom the spices
  • Incorporate yogurt
  • Sear the marinated chicken
  • Deglaze and simmer

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil with care to avoid splatter
  • Use a pot holder when adding hot water to the pan
  • Watch the knife while chopping chicken
  • Do not leave the pan unattended on high heat

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Punjabi Style Chicken Curry in Indian cuisine?

A

Punjabi Style Chicken Curry originates from the Punjab region of India, where hearty meat dishes have long been a staple for farmers and laborers. The use of ghee, yogurt, and caramelized onions reflects the region's love for rich, comforting flavors, and the dish has become a symbol of Punjabi hospitality and robust cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Punjabi Style Chicken Curry in Indian cuisine?

A

In different parts of Punjab, the curry may be made with bone‑in chicken, mustard oil, or added fenugreek leaves for a slightly bitter note. Some families prefer a thicker gravy using cashew paste, while others keep it thinner with more yogurt, showcasing the diversity within Punjabi home cooking.

cultural
Q

What is the authentic traditional way Punjabi Style Chicken Curry is served in Punjab, India?

A

Traditionally, Punjabi Style Chicken Curry is served hot with butter‑rich naan, tandoori roti, or steamed basmati rice, accompanied by a side of fresh cucumber raita and pickled onions. It is often garnished with a drizzle of ghee and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra aroma.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Punjabi Style Chicken Curry traditionally associated with in Indian culture?

A

Punjabi Style Chicken Curry is a popular centerpiece for festivals such as Baisakhi, weddings, and family gatherings in Punjab. Its rich, comforting profile makes it a favored dish for celebratory feasts and communal meals where large groups share food together.

cultural
Q

How does Punjabi Style Chicken Curry fit into the broader Indian cuisine tradition?

A

The curry exemplifies North Indian cooking techniques, combining dairy (ghee, yogurt) with robust spice blends. It bridges everyday home cooking and festive fare, illustrating how Indian cuisine balances spice, creaminess, and depth of flavor across regions.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Punjabi Style Chicken Curry versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include chicken (preferably bone‑in), ghee, plain yogurt, caramelized onions, turmeric, Kashmiri red chili powder, ginger‑garlic paste, and garam masala. Acceptable substitutes are butter or oil for ghee, Greek yogurt for plain yogurt, and chicken thighs instead of breast for extra juiciness.

cultural
Q

What other Indian dishes pair well with Punjabi Style Chicken Curry for a balanced meal?

A

Punjabi Style Chicken Curry pairs beautifully with buttery naan, tandoori roti, or jeera rice. Side dishes like aloo gobi, bhindi masala, and a cooling cucumber raita create a balanced plate of flavors and textures.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Punjabi Style Chicken Curry at home?

A

Common pitfalls include over‑cooking the chicken, which makes it dry, and skipping the slow caramelization of onions, which reduces the depth of flavor. Also, adding yogurt too quickly can cause curdling; temper it with a little hot gravy before stirring it in.

technical
Q

Why does this Punjabi Style Chicken Curry recipe use caramelized onions and ghee instead of regular oil?

A

Caramelized onions provide a natural sweetness and a rich, smoky base that defines Punjabi cuisine, while ghee adds a buttery aroma and higher smoke point that enhances the overall mouthfeel. Using these ingredients creates a more authentic, layered flavor profile than plain oil would.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Chef Ajay Kumar specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Chef Ajay Kumar specializes in authentic Indian home cooking, focusing on Punjabi and North Indian recipes. Chef Ajay Kumar emphasizes traditional techniques, ingredient authenticity, and step‑by‑step guidance for viewers seeking genuine Indian flavors.

channel

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