Title: 18 Delicious Whole Chicken Recipes Indian Spicy
Are you a food lover looking for some inspiration in the kitchen? Look no further! Today, we’re going to explore the world of whole chicken recipes, with a twist – all of them are Indian spicy dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala to more adventurous options like Chicken Vindaloo and Chicken Kolhapuri, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering collection of 18 recipes.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Indian cuisine and explore the rich flavors and spices that make these dishes so unique. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to provide endless inspiration for your next meal.
Butter Chicken
This classic Indian dish is a staple of many restaurants and homes around the world. With its rich, creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken cooked in buttery goodness, it’s no wonder Butter Chicken remains a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat ghee or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and stir in butter until melted.
8. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tikka Masala
A classic Indian-inspired dish that’s sure to please! This recipe combines marinated chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add the garlic, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
8. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
9. Serve the chicken with the creamy tomato sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tandoori Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of India with this classic Tandoori Chicken recipe. Marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, this chicken dish is a staple of Indian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or legs
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons tandoori masala powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala powder, garam masala powder, cumin powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, mixing well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and brush with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Korma
Savor the rich flavors of India with this classic Chicken Korma dish, a popular curry that combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Vindaloo
Experience the bold flavors of Indian cuisine with this classic Chicken Vindaloo recipe. Aromatic spices and tangy vinegar create a rich and savory sauce to accompany tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 cup tomato puree
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato puree and vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken, about 10 minutes.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Chettinad
Experience the bold flavors of South Indian cuisine with this mouthwatering Chicken Chettinad recipe, made with aromatic spices and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup yogurt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until lightly browned (5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned (6-7 minutes).
5. Stir in yogurt and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Biryani
Savor the flavors of India with this classic Chicken Biryani recipe, a flavorful and aromatic dish made with basmati rice, chicken, and spices. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice to the pan, stirring well to combine with spices. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add water to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Stir in cooked chicken and season with salt. Garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken 65
Chicken 65 Recipe
A popular Indian dish, Chicken 65 is a flavorful and spicy recipe that’s sure to please. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together chicken pieces, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they’re translucent.
- Add garlic, ginger paste, and marinated chicken to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add tomato puree and lemon juice to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Chicken Jalfrezi
Jalfrezi is a popular Indian dish that combines the flavors of spices, herbs, and chilies to create a mouthwatering stir-fry. This recipe for chicken jalfrezi is a quick and easy adaptation that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium-hot red chilies, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add the chilies, garlic, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and salt. Stir well.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Madras
A popular Indian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of chicken, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices with a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for those who love a little heat!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Makhani
Experience the rich flavors of India with this classic Chicken Makhani recipe, featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce with a hint of cardamom and cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the chicken in salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic, cumin, and cardamom; sauté until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or naan.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Saag
Chicken Saag Recipe
Savor the flavors of India with this classic Chicken Saag recipe, a creamy and aromatic dish made with chicken, spinach puree, and a blend of spices.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, cumin, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes and cook for an additional minute. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and spinach leaves. Bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Reduce heat to low and let cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Dhansak
Chicken Dhansak is a popular North Indian dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and succulent lentils. This recipe makes for a hearty and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they caramelize (about 8 minutes).
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
4. Add diced tomatoes, lentils, and water. Season with salt.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Rogan Josh
Chicken Rogan Josh is a classic Indian dish that originated in the Kashmir region. This flavorful and aromatic curry is made with tender chicken, rich spices, and a hint of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cayenne, and cardamom. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Do Pyaza
This aromatic Chicken Do Pyaza recipe is a twist on the classic chicken tikka masala, with tender chicken cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. Serve it over basmati rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-6 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. In a blender or food processor, puree the cooked onion mixture with garlic, cumin powder, garam masala powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the blended mixture to the skillet with the chicken. Stir in diced tomatoes and heavy cream.
5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Kolhapuri
This classic Indian recipe from Maharashtra, known as Chicken Kolhapuri, is a flavorful and spicy dish that combines the richness of chicken with the boldness of Kolhapuri chilies. With its perfect balance of spices, this dish will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (Kolhapuri chilies)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they caramelize.
2. Add garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and salt. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Xacuti
Experience the bold flavors of India with this rich and aromatic Chicken Xacuti dish, originating from the spice-rich region of Kashmir.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Cafreal
Chicken Cafreal is a popular Indian dish that originated from Hyderabad, known for its bold flavors and spices. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, with a perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Stir in chicken broth, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and cilantro leaves.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Conclusion
Are you craving delicious and spicy Indian dishes? Look no further! This article brings you 18 mouth-watering whole chicken recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic Butter Chicken to Chicken Tikka Masala, Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Korma, and many more, this collection has something for everyone. Discover the secrets behind each dish and learn how to cook these flavorful meals with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
