Are you craving something uniquely tasty and aromatic? Achari Chicken Recipe, with its robust blend of pickling spices and tender chicken, offers a burst of delicious flavor in every bite.
Achari Chicken Recipe is a dish that brings the tangy, bold flavors of achar (pickle) to tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is all about infusing chicken with a mixture of pickle-like spices, including fenugreek, mustard seeds, and fennel, creating a dish that’s both aromatic and deeply satisfying.
It’s fairly simple to cook and perfect for when you want to spice up your meal routine with something exciting yet comforting.
Ingredients used in achari chicken recipe
To prepare Achari Chicken recipe, following ingredients are required in the specified quantities:
- Chicken: 1 kg, cut into pieces
- Yogurt: 250 grams, whisked
- Tomatoes: 2 medium, finely chopped
- Onion: 1 large, thinly sliced
- Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Ginger Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Achari Masala: 2-3 tablespoons
- Mustard Oil: 4 tablespoons (or any cooking oil)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Green Chilies: 4-5, slit
- Fresh Coriander: A handful, chopped for garnish
- Salt: to taste
Cooking Tools required for achari chicken recipe
To cook Achari Chicken, following cooking tools are required:
- Large Heavy-Bottomed Pan or Wok: For even cooking and frying the ingredients.
- Spatula or Cooking Spoon: To stir and mix the ingredients well.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
- Knife: To chop or slice the onions, tomatoes, and green chilies.
- Cutting Board: To prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables.
- Bowl: To whisk the yogurt and marinate the chicken if needed.
How to make achari Chicken recipe: Step by step process;
Here’s a step-by-step guide to cook easy Achari Chicken:
- Prepare ingredients: Clean and cut the chicken into pieces. Slice the onion, chop the tomatoes, and slit the green chilies. Whisk the yogurt until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken (Optional): In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with garlic paste, ginger paste, lemon juice, and half of the Achari masala. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. (This step is optional but recommended for a deeper flavor.)
- Cook the Onions:Heat the mustard oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan or wok until it’s smoking slightly, then reduce the heat. Add the sliced onions and fry until they are golden brown.
- Add the Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the marinated chicken (or unmarinated if you skipped that step), and cook until the chicken pieces are well-sealed and turn white.
- Spice It Up: Add the remaining Achari masala to the chicken along with the garlic and ginger paste. Stir well to ensure the chicken is coated with the spices.
- Tomato Incorporation: Add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Simmer with Yogurt: Reduce the heat and add the whisked yogurt to the pan. Stir continuously to avoid curdling. Cook until the chicken is tender and the gravy is thick.
- Final Touches: Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy has a rich consistency, adjust the salt to your taste, and add a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh coriander over the cooked Achari Chicken for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Serve: Serve your delicious Achari Chicken hot with naan, roti, or rice, and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Expert Tip
Marinate chicken in a bit of yogurt and the achari spices overnight. This not only tenderizes the chicken but also allows the robust spices to penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite is infused with the rich, tangy flavor characteristic of the dish. This little step can make a big difference, turning Achari Chicken from good to outstanding, as it solves the common problem of uneven flavor distribution and offers a more tender, juicy texture.
Serving Tips
Achari Chicken pairs beautifully with the following sides:
- Naan or Roti: Soft, fresh bread to scoop up the flavorful chicken and sauce.
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, it provides a neutral base to enjoy the spicy chicken.
- Cucumber Raita: A cool, yogurt-based condiment to balance the heat of the dish.
- Pickled Onions: Adds a tangy crunch that complements the pickled flavors of the chicken.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds a fresh zest, enhancing the tangy profile of the Achari Chicken.
Check more chicken recipes
Chicken white handi recipe
Methi Chicken recipe
Chicken Dopiaza recipe
Bhuna Chicken Masala Recipe
Chicken Salan recipe
Storage Instructions
Here’s the process of storing and reheating this delicious recipe for further use:
To Store
Cool the Achari Chicken completely and transfer it into an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When freezing, portion the chicken into meal-sized servings for easier thawing and reheating.
To Reheat
Thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat until fully warmed, stirring occasionally. If it appears dry, add a little water or stock to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in a microwave, using a microwave-safe container, for 2-3 minutes or until hot throughout. Stir midway to ensure even heating.
Conclusion
Achari Chicken is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings the essence of Pakistani cuisine with its tangy and spicy profile. It’s versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides like naan, rice, and raita. By following the cooking steps, you can easily prepare this dish to perfection.
Eager to add a tangy twist to your dinner? Try making Achari Chicken and experience the burst of flavors in your own kitchen. Once you’ve mastered the recipe, share your delicious masterpiece with me. Can’t wait to see your spicy, pickled creations.
Frequently asked questions
What does Achari mean in Achari Chicken?
Achar means pickle in Pakistani and Indian cuisine. When Indian pickling spice, a blend of mustard, fenugreek, fennel, nigella, cumin, and coriander seeds, is used to flavor a curry, the dish is referred to as ‘achari’.
Can I adjust the spiciness of Achari Chicken?
Absolutely! You can control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
Is mustard oil essential for this recipe?
Mustard oil plays a crucial role in enhancing the authentic flavor of Achari Chicken. However, if you can’t find it, you can use any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil.
How long does it take to prepare Achari Chicken?
The preparation time is approximately 45 minutes, including marination time.
Can I make Achari Chicken in an Instant Pot?
Yes, Achari Chicken can be made in an Instant Pot. Adjustments in cooking time and method will be needed compared to traditional stovetop preparation.
Achari Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 kg cut into pieces
- Yogurt: 250 grams whisked
- Tomatoes: 2 medium finely chopped
- Onion: 1 large thinly sliced
- Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Ginger Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Achari Masala: 2-3 tablespoons
- Mustard Oil: 4 tablespoons or any cooking oil
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Green Chilies: 4-5 slit
- Fresh Coriander: A handful chopped for garnish
- Salt: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Clean and cut the chicken into pieces. Slice the onion, chop the tomatoes, and slit the green chilies. Whisk the yogurt until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken (Optional): In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with garlic paste, ginger paste, lemon juice, and half of the Achari masala. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. (This step is optional but recommended for a deeper flavor.)
- Cook the Onions: Heat the mustard oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan or wok until it's smoking slightly, then reduce the heat. Add the sliced onions and fry until they are golden brown.
- Add the Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the marinated chicken (or unmarinated if you skipped that step), and cook until the chicken pieces are well-sealed and turn white.
- Spice It Up: Add the remaining Achari masala to the chicken along with the garlic and ginger paste. Stir well to ensure the chicken is coated with the spices.
- Tomato Incorporation: Add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Simmer with Yogurt: Reduce the heat and add the whisked yogurt to the pan. Stir continuously to avoid curdling. Cook until the chicken is tender and the gravy is thick.
- Final Touches: Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy has a rich consistency, adjust the salt to your taste, and add a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh coriander over the cooked Achari Chicken for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Serve: Serve your delicious Achari Chicken hot with naan, roti, or rice, and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Notes
Aleezay Khan
I am Aleezay Khan, I enjoy experimenting with flavors, giving traditional Pakistani dishes a modern twist. Join me on a tasty journey where classic meets contemporary, creating unforgettable food adventures.