Ginger Chicken
Tender chicken pieces simmered in a zesty, aromatic gravy dominated by fresh ginger. This North Indian classic, also known as Adraki Murgh, is wonderfully warming and pairs perfectly with naan or rice for a comforting meal.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Marinate the Chicken
- b.In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, whisked curd, 2 tablespoons of ginger paste, 1 tablespoon of garlic paste, turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- c.Mix thoroughly to ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated.
- d.Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Gravy Base
- b.Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the finely chopped onions and sauté patiently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden brown. This step is crucial for the color and flavor of the gravy.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Masala
- b.Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of ginger paste and the slit green chilies. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- c.Stir in the tomato puree, coriander powder, and the remaining 0.25 teaspoon of salt.
- d.Cook the masala for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and you see oil separating from the mixture at the edges.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Sauté and Cook the Chicken
- b.Add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade to the pan. Increase the heat to medium-high.
- c.Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring continuously. This process, known as 'bhunao', sears the chicken and cooks down the yogurt, preventing a raw taste and developing a rich flavor.
- d.Continue cooking until the chicken is lightly browned and the masala clings to the pieces.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer the Curry
- b.Pour in 1 cup of warm water and stir well to combine everything, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pan.
- c.Bring the gravy to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- d.Cover the pan and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is tender, fully cooked, and the gravy has thickened to your liking.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Finish and Garnish
- b.Turn off the heat and stir in the garam masala powder.
- c.Cover the pan again and let the curry rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- d.Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves and ginger juliennes before serving.
- e.Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic and potent flavor, use freshly made ginger and garlic paste.
- 2Don't rush the process of browning the onions. A deep, even golden brown color is the foundation of a delicious curry.
- 3The 'bhunao' step (sautéing the chicken in the masala) is essential for developing a deep, complex flavor profile.
- 4Always use full-fat, well-whisked curd at room temperature to prevent it from splitting when added to the hot pan.
- 5Using warm water to make the gravy helps maintain the cooking temperature and ensures the chicken stays tender.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamier Curry
For a richer, milder version (Murgh Adraki Malai), reduce the chili powder and stir in 1/4 cup of fresh cream or cashew paste during the last 2 minutes of simmering.
Use Bone in ChickenUse Bone-in Chicken
Substitute boneless chicken with bone-in, skinless pieces for a more flavorful and succulent curry. Increase the simmering time in step 5 by 10-15 minutes.
Dry VersionDry Version
To make a semi-dry version (Sukha Adraki Murgh), omit the water in step 5. Cover and cook the chicken in its own juices and the marinade over low heat until tender, stirring occasionally.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Anti-inflammatory Powerhouse
Ginger is rich in gingerol, a natural compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Regular consumption can help reduce muscle soreness, ease digestive discomfort, and combat inflammation.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken provides high-quality lean protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy metabolism. It also promotes satiety, helping with weight management.
Boosts Immunity
The combination of ginger, garlic, and turmeric creates a powerful immune-supporting trio. Garlic is known for its ability to fight germs, while turmeric's active compound, curcumin, is a strong antioxidant that helps protect the body's cells.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Ginger Chicken can be a very healthy dish. It is high in lean protein from the chicken and packed with the anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits of ginger. To maximize its healthiness, use minimal oil and pair it with whole-grain flatbreads or brown rice.