Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Methi Malai Chicken. This creamy and delicious dish, made with fresh fenugreek leaves and a blend of spices, is perfect for any special occasion or a delightful dinner. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this flavorful chicken curry at home.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- Chicken: 1 kg (cut into medium-sized pieces)
- Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
- Garam masala powder: ½ tsp
- Crushed ginger-garlic: 1 tbsp
- Salt: to taste
For the Curry:
- Cardamom: 2
- Cloves: 2
- Bay leaf: 1
- Onion: 3 (thinly sliced)
- Green chili: 2 (chopped)
- Crushed ginger-garlic: 2 tsp
- Tomato: 2 (chopped)
- Fresh fenugreek leaves (methi leaves), chopped: 1 cup
- Red chili powder: 1 ½ tsp
- Coriander powder: 1 tbsp
- Turmeric powder: ¼ tsp
- Yogurt: ½ cup
- Fresh cream: 1/3 cup
- Dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi): ½ tsp
- Salt: to taste
- Oil: 2 tbsp
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Clean the chicken pieces thoroughly.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken with turmeric powder, garam masala powder, crushed ginger-garlic, and salt. Marinate for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base
- Heat oil in a pan over medium flame. Add cardamom, cloves, and bay leaf.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onions are soft and golden brown.
- Add the chopped green chilies and crushed ginger-garlic. Sauté until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and mushy.
- Stir in the chopped fresh methi leaves and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Spices and Chicken
- Add red chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Sauté until the raw smell disappears and oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Reduce the flame and add yogurt, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces and mix well. Cook on high flame for 4-5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of water, cover, and cook until the chicken is done.
Step 4: Finish with Cream and Kasoori Methi
- Stir in the fresh cream and dried kasoori methi. Mix well and cook on low flame for a minute.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Methi Malai Chicken hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti. This rich and creamy chicken curry pairs beautifully with any Indian bread or rice dish, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
