There’s something truly captivating about the vibrant colors and robust aromas that fill my kitchen when I make Chicken Pasanda. This dish has a way of weaving its magic, transforming an ordinary evening into an extraordinary culinary experience. It’s hard not to get lost in the tantalizing scents of cardamom and garlic that dance through the air, beckoning anyone nearby to take a seat and savor the moment.
As someone who adores homemade meals, I often find myself in search of recipes that are both comforting and impressive. I stumbled upon Chicken Pasanda during one of my many culinary adventures, and it quickly became a staple in my home. Its unique combination of spices offers a delightful depth of flavor, and the creamy yogurt base ensures that every bite melts in your mouth.
Perfect for both everyday dinners and special gatherings, this dish is a testament to the fact that homemade food can be both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Join me in discovering how to bring this delightful recipe to life—I promise you won’t regret it!
Why is Chicken Pasanda a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The harmonizing blend of spices, including garam masala and ground almonds, adds an unforgettable richness to every bite.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.
Creamy Texture: The addition of yogurt and double cream creates a velvety sauce that beautifully coats the chicken.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions, this recipe is bound to impress guests and family alike.
You might also enjoy exploring other delightful dishes like another flavorful curry to diversify your culinary repertoire!
Chicken Pasanda Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic!
For the Curry
- 2 tbsp ghee – a rich, aromatic fat that enhances flavor; could be substituted with vegetable oil if needed.
- 1 onion – finely chopped for a sweet and savory base; the more finely chopped, the quicker it will caramelize.
- 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525g) – chopped into bite-size chunks for tender bites; feel free to use thighs for extra juiciness.
- 3 cardamom pods – add these whole for a burst of flavor; lightly crush them to release more aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for a robust, aromatic kick; fresh garlic always delivers the best flavor.
- 2 tsp minced ginger – brings warmth and a hint of spice to the curry; substitute with ground ginger in a pinch.
- 1 tsp ground cumin – essential for earthy flavor; toast it lightly for a more intense aroma.
- 1 ½ tsp ground coriander – complements the other spices beautifully; check your spice freshness for best results.
- 1.5 tsp garam masala – a warm and fragrant blend of spices; use a good quality blend for the best flavor.
- ½ tsp mild chilli powder (optional) – add some heat if desired; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- ½ tsp turmeric – for a vibrant color and several health benefits; this spice brings depth to your curry.
- ¼ tsp salt – enhances all the flavors in your dish; remember to adjust it based on your taste preference.
- ¼ tsp black pepper – adds subtle heat; freshly ground black pepper elevates the flavor profile.
- 240 ml full-fat plain yogurt – creates a creamy base that balances spices; swap with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
- 60 ml double cream – for decadence; reduce or omit for a lighter dish if desired.
- 3 tbsp ground almonds – adds creaminess and texture; almond flour can also be used.
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped coriander – for a fresh, bright finish; substitute with parsley if you prefer.
Prepare to bring the delightful flavors of Chicken Pasanda to your table!
How to Make Chicken Pasanda
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Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat until shimmering. This will help unlock the rich flavor, providing a perfect base for your Chicken Pasanda.
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Sauté onion by adding the finely chopped pieces; cook until translucent. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, allowing the natural sweetness of the onion to develop.
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Cook chicken by stirring in the chopped chicken breasts. Let them sear until browned on all sides, which should take about 7-10 minutes. This browning adds depth to the dish.
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Add spices by incorporating cardamom pods, garlic, ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, optional chili powder, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir these together well for about 2-3 minutes to bloom the flavors.
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Mix in yogurt and cream, stirring to combine everything seamlessly. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble softly.
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Cook gently on low heat until the chicken is cooked through, usually about 10-15 minutes. The chicken should be tender and the sauce thickened.
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Finish with almonds and herbs by stirring in ground almonds and freshly chopped coriander just before serving. This adds a delightful creaminess and fresh touch to your Chicken Pasanda.
Optional: Garnish with extra coriander for a vibrant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Pasanda
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Pasanda in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: Chicken Pasanda freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best quality.
Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain creaminess. Heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh naan or steamed rice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy the flavors of this delightful Chicken Pasanda!
Chicken Pasanda Variations
Explore different ways to make this dish your own, enhancing its aroma and flavor with delightful twists!
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken with paneer or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a hearty substitute.
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Spicy Kick: Add extra chili powder or fresh green chilies to take the heat up a notch. This will create an invigorating experience that spice lovers will adore.
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Nut-Free: Omit ground almonds and use coconut milk for creaminess instead. This change keeps your curry luscious without the nuts.
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Coconut Twist: Substitute yogurt and cream with coconut yogurt and cream for a tropical flavor explosion, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
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Herbed Delight: Add fresh mint or basil to the final dish for an aromatic surprise that brightens the entire flavor profile.
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Slow Cooker: Pop all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method melds the spices beautifully and makes meal prep a breeze.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in lime or lemon juice before serving for a refreshing burst of acidity that balances the richness perfectly.
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Grain Alternative: Serve with quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a healthier, low-carb alternative.
Tips for the Best Chicken Pasanda
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Spice Layering: Adding spices at different stages enhances flavor depth. Be sure to bloom the spices after adding the chicken for that rich, aromatic essence.
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Creamy Consistency: Use full-fat yogurt and double cream to achieve that luxurious texture. Don’t skip this for a silky Chicken Pasanda; low-fat options may alter the richness.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger. Their vibrant flavors create a significant impact, giving your curry that homemade touch.
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Don’t Overcook: Chicken can easily become dry if overcooked. Monitor closely—tender, juicy pieces are ideal for your Chicken Pasanda.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh coriander adds brightness and contrast. Don’t skip finishing touches, as they elevate the visual appeal and flavor of your dish!
What to Serve with Chicken Pasanda?
Creating the perfect meal experience doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s all about complementing flavors and textures that dance on your palate.
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Steamed Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy, this fragrant rice absorbs the rich flavors of the curry, making every bite a comforting delight. Transform your dinner table into a warm haven with each scoop!
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Garlic Naan: Soft, pillowy naan brushed with garlic butter is perfect for scooping up creamy Chicken Pasanda. It adds an inviting, aromatic crunch that enhances the whole meal experience.
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Cucumber Raita: This refreshing yogurt-based dip balances the spices from the curry and cools your palate. The crisp cucumber adds a delightful crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: An assortment of seasonal vegetables, lightly seasoned and roasted, gives a delightful earthy flavor. Consider bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition on your plate!
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Mango Chutney: A touch of sweetness from this tangy condiment brings out the complex spices in the Chicken Pasanda. Its fruity notes perfectly elevate the dish and delight your taste buds.
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Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai is not only comforting but also complements the aromatic spices in the curry. The velvety texture of the tea rounds out your meal beautifully.
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Pistachio Pakora: These crunchy, spiced fritters offer a delightful contrast to the creamy curry. Their nutty flavor and crispy texture provide a delightful dimension to your dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Pasanda are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the chicken and prepare the spice blend up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can sauté the onion and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping its sweet flavor intact. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sautéed onion in a pan, add the chicken and spices, mix in the yogurt and cream, and let it simmer until fully cooked. This ensures that your Chicken Pasanda remains just as delicious and aromatic while saving you valuable time during busy weeknights!
Chicken Pasanda Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Chicken Pasanda?
Absolutely! For the best Chicken Pasanda, select firm chicken breasts without any dark spots. The onion should be fresh and have a shiny, papery skin, and your garlic should be plump and fragrant. Fresh ginger should feel smooth and firm, avoiding any wrinkles, while spices are best used fresh for maximum flavor.
How should I store leftover Chicken Pasanda?
Very easy! Leftover Chicken Pasanda can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can affect the dish’s quality.
Can I freeze Chicken Pasanda?
Absolutely! Chicken Pasanda freezes beautifully. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply move it to the fridge overnight. For reheating, heat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy and delicious.
What if my Chicken Pasanda turns out too thick?
Not to worry! If your Chicken Pasanda is too thick, you can thin it out by slowly adding a little bit of water or more double cream until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time and stir well. If necessary, reheat it gently to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Pasanda?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can substitute full-fat yogurt and double cream with coconut yogurt or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. If you’re cooking for pets, ensure there are no onions, garlic, or spices in the leftovers, as these can be harmful to them. Always check for allergies before serving!
What should I do if my Chicken Pasanda is too spicy?
The more the merrier! If you find your Chicken Pasanda has too much heat, try adding a bit more yogurt or cream to balance it out. Alternatively, adding a spoon of sugar can help mellow the flavors without compromising the overall taste. Remember to taste as you go!
Delicious Chicken Pasanda That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onion until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped chicken breasts; let them sear until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add cardamom pods, garlic, ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, optional chili powder, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir well for about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in yogurt and cream; stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook on low heat until chicken is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in ground almonds and freshly chopped coriander just before serving.