Chicken Maharani Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Maharani is a royal and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Indian spices with a creamy, nutty base. This dish is perfect for special occasions and will surely impress your guests with its luxurious taste and exquisite presentation.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, pureed
• 1/2 cup cashew nuts, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• 1/4 cup fresh cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 2 bay leaves
• 4-5 cloves
• 2-3 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated.
3. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Cashew Paste

1. Drain the soaked cashew nuts and blend them into a smooth paste with a little water. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
2. Add bay leaves, cloves, green cardamoms, cinnamon stick, and cumin seeds. Sauté until fragrant.
3. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
6. Add coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink on the outside.

Step 4: Finish the Gravy

1. Add the cashew paste to the pan and mix well.
2. Add fresh cream and milk, stirring to combine.
3. Lower the heat and let the chicken simmer until it is cooked through and the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Adjust salt to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Conclusion

Chicken Maharani is a decadent dish that brings the royal flavors of Indian cuisine to your table. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with aromatic spices, makes it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this delicious recipe with your loved ones and make your meals memorable!