Best Handi Chicken Recipe | Easy Step-by-Step Guide with Images

Best Handi Chicken Recipe 

Handi Chicken is a traditional North Indian dish cooked in an earthen pot or "handi," which lends a unique flavor to the chicken. The slow-cooking process in the handi gives the dish its rich, deep flavors, making it a favorite for special occasions or hearty family meals.

 In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to prepare this flavorful and aromatic dish step by step, with images to guide you along the way.

Ingredients for Handi Chicken

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g chicken (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Masala Base:

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• 2 large onions (finely sliced)
• 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 2-3 green chilies (slit)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Handi Chicken Recipe with Images

1. Preparing the Chicken

Step 1: Clean and wash the chicken thoroughly. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, add yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.

Step 3: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

2. Cooking the Masala Base

Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a handi (Earthen pot) or a heavy-bottomed pan.

Step 2: Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 3: Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and oil starts to separate from the masala.

Step 5: Now, add coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

3. Slow Cooking the Chicken in the Handi

Step 1: Add the marinated chicken to the masala base and stir to coat the chicken pieces evenly.

Step 2: Cover the handi with a lid and allow the chicken to cook on low heat. The slow-cooking process will ensure the chicken absorbs all the spices and flavors.

Step 3: After 15-20 minutes, check the chicken, stir, and adjust salt if necessary.

Step 4: Add kasuri methi and slit green chilies. Cover again and let it simmer for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

4. Garnishing and Final Touch

Step 1: Once the chicken is cooked, turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Step 2: Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a fulfilling meal.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Handi Chicken

Marinate longer for better flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more tender and flavorful it will be.

Cook on low heat: Slow cooking helps the chicken absorb all the spices and results in a rich, deeply flavored dish.

Avoid too much oil: Handi Chicken is a rich dish, but using too much oil can make it greasy. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons for a healthier meal.

Serving Suggestions for Handi Chicken

Handi Chicken pairs best with Indian flatbreads or rice. 

Here are a few serving ideas:

Naan or Roti: Serve with freshly made naan or soft roti to soak up the flavorful gravy.

Steamed Basmati Rice: Simple steamed rice is an excellent accompaniment, allowing the flavors of the chicken to shine.

Lassi or Buttermilk: A glass of chilled lassi or buttermilk can complement the rich flavors and provide a cooling balance to the spices.

Nutritional Value of Handi Chicken

Handi Chicken is a protein-rich dish, thanks to the chicken and yogurt. 

Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

The dish provides essential nutrients from the chicken and spices, making it a wholesome meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken as it can become dry and tough.

Using too much oil or ghee: While oil is necessary for cooking, excessive amounts can make the dish too greasy.

Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken allows it to absorb the flavors of the spices, so don’t rush this step.

Handi Chicken Variations

Creamy Handi Chicken: Add a few tablespoons of cream or cashew paste towards the end of cooking for a richer, creamier gravy.

Spicy Handi Chicken: Increase the amount of green chilies or add red chili powder to make the dish spicier.

Handi Chicken with Yogurt Base: Skip the tomatoes and use a yogurt-based gravy for a tangy twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing: Store leftover Handi Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water if the gravy has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make Handi Chicken without a handi?

Yes, you can use any heavy-bottomed pot or pan if you don’t have a traditional handi. Just make sure it distributes heat evenly for slow cooking.

2. Can I use boneless chicken for Handi Chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken works well. However, bone-in chicken adds extra flavor to the dish.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If possible, marinate for 2-3 hours for a deeper flavor.

4. Can I freeze Handi Chicken?

Yes, Handi Chicken can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

5. Is Handi Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, Handi Chicken is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any wheat-based ingredients.

Enjoy your homemade Handi Chicken, a flavorful, aromatic dish that will impress family and friends alike!