Name: Chicken Changezi Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boned and skinned, cut into 3 pieces each for juicy, tender bites that cook evenly.; 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder provides vibrant color and mild heat.; 1 teaspoon coriander powder adds earthy, citrusy notes.; ½ teaspoon black pepper (coarsely ground) for a gentle punch of spice.; ½ teaspoon garam masala infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavors.; ¼ teaspoon tandoori masala (optional) adds a tangy depth and enhances color.; ⅓ teaspoon kosher salt to enhance all the other flavors.; 2 tablespoons plain full-fat yogurt, acting as the binding agent for the marinade.; 3 tablespoons neutral oil like canola for frying.; 1 tablespoon garlic-ginger paste for a bold, aromatic base.; 1 green chili (finely chopped) for a touch of heat.; ½ cup pureed tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet tomato base.; 1 cup thick Indian hotel curry gravy for a smooth, rich sauce.; ¼ cup heavy cream for creaminess and luxurious texture.; 1 teaspoon kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to add a nutty, subtle bitterness.; Fried shallots (for garnish) to add a crisp texture and slightly caramelized flavor to the final dish.

I just made Chicken Changezi for the first time, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The richness of the creamy sauce blended with bold spices creates a mouthwatering dish that feels luxurious yet comforting at the same time.

The flavors balance perfectly, with the creaminess tempering the spice kick just enough to leave you craving more. After tasting how well everything came together, I can confidently say this recipe is worth adding to your weekly rotation. Trust me, it’s an absolute game-changer for curry lovers.

Credit: chefadora

Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the magic of Chicken Changezi. While it might seem like a long list, every one of these elements adds depth and layers of flavor to the dish.

4 chicken thighs, boned and skinned, cut into 3 pieces each for juicy, tender bites that cook evenly.
1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder provides vibrant color and mild heat.
1 teaspoon coriander powder adds earthy, citrusy notes.
½ teaspoon black pepper (coarsely ground) for a gentle punch of spice.
½ teaspoon garam masala infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavors.
¼ teaspoon tandoori masala (optional) adds a tangy depth and enhances color.
⅓ teaspoon kosher salt to enhance all the other flavors.
2 tablespoons plain full-fat yogurt, acting as the binding agent for the marinade.
3 tablespoons neutral oil like canola for frying.
1 tablespoon garlic-ginger paste for a bold, aromatic base.
1 green chili (finely chopped) for a touch of heat.
½ cup pureed tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet tomato base.
1 cup thick Indian hotel curry gravy for a smooth, rich sauce.
¼ cup heavy cream for creaminess and luxurious texture.
1 teaspoon kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to add a nutty, subtle bitterness.
Fried shallots (for garnish) to add a crisp texture and slightly caramelized flavor to the final dish.

Note: Serves 2 generously. Adjust portions as needed for a larger crowd.

Variations

To make the recipe fit dietary preferences, here are some possible variations:

For a dairy-free version, replace yogurt with coconut yogurt and cream with thick coconut milk.
Experiment with boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
Use crushed cashews or almond paste in place of heavy cream for a nutty richness.
Add a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist to the spice mix.
Make it vegetarian by using firm tofu or roasted eggplant instead of chicken.

For another flavorful chicken dish, you might want to try this Mexican Chicken Adobo Recipe for a tangy and spicy delight.

Cooking Time

This recipe doesn’t take long to prepare and cook, yet it tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. Here’s the breakdown:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment You Need

Gather these tools to ensure the cooking process runs smoothly:

Large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken.
Sharp knife for cutting the chicken and green chili.
Non-stick skillet for frying the chicken without sticking.
Saucepan for preparing the curry sauce.
Measuring spoons and cups for precise ingredient portions.
Ladle or spoon for stirring the sauce and serving your dish.

How to Make Chicken Changezi?

Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing the marinade. Combine chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, tandoori masala, salt, and plain yogurt in a large bowl. The yogurt softens the chicken and helps the spices cling, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in this mixture. If you have time, allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly fry the marinated chicken pieces for about 3–4 minutes per side, just until they develop a golden crust. You don’t need to cook them all the way through just yet. Remove and set them aside.

Prepare the Curry Base

Reuse the oil from frying the chicken to deepen the flavor. Add the black cardamom and sauté it for 20–30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in garlic-ginger paste and stir until it turns aromatic, which should take around a minute. Be sure to keep the heat low to prevent burning.

Layer the Flavors

Reduce the heat and stir in the spice mix. Cooking spices in oil brings out their flavor and aroma, enhancing the dish. Follow with yogurt and stir continuously for about 30 seconds until well incorporated. Then add tomato puree and chopped green chili, frying the mixture gently to release its rich flavors.

Build the Curry

Pour in the Indian hotel curry gravy and stir it into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer before adding the cream and kasoori methi. The addition of kasoori methi gives the curry its distinct, smoky undertone.

Finish Cooking the Chicken

Nestle the partly fried chicken pieces into the sauce. Cover the skillet and allow the dish to simmer for about 5–6 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking. Check that the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Adjust Consistency

Finally, assess the sauce consistency. If it feels too thick, stir in a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen it. Simmer for another minute, and your Chicken Changezi is ready to serve!

Credit: foodiesterminal

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are a few personal tips to nail this recipe every time:

Always use fresh, high-quality chicken for juicier bites.
Prepping your spices and ingredients in advance simplifies the process.
If you’re using store-bought curry gravy, adjust the salt as it may already be seasoned.
Don’t skip the kasoori methi. It truly elevates the fragrance of the curry.
Garnish with fried shallots right before serving to maintain their crunch.

If you’re a fan of baked dishes, you might also enjoy this Chicken Parmesan Casserole Recipe for a hearty, cheesy twist.

How to Serve Chicken Changezi?

Chicken Changezi pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. To elevate the presentation, garnish the curry with thinly sliced fried shallots, a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves, and a drizzle of cream. Serve it piping hot in a decorative bowl for that extra wow factor when hosting guests.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for this dish:

Calories: 771 kcal
Protein: 45 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fat: 56 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Changezi stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to retain its aroma and texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Divide it into portions before freezing to make reheating easier.

Reheating

When reheating, use a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or stock to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Chicken Changezi is a crowd-pleaser for numerous reasons:

Bursting with flavor: The rich blend of spices and creamy base creates an unforgettable taste.
Quick prep: With pre-made curry gravy, this dish comes together faster than you’d think.
Customizable: The recipe can easily adapt to your dietary needs or favorite ingredients.
Fancy yet simple: It feels like fine dining without the complexity of professional cooking.
Perfect for entertaining: The bold flavors and vibrant presentation make it ideal for guests.

Give this Chicken Changezi recipe a try, and I guarantee it will become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy weeknight or at your next dinner party, this dish is a true winner! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.