Chettinad Chicken Fry Recipe

Chettinad Chicken Fry is a classic dish from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu in South India, celebrated for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. It's a delightful combination of tender chicken pieces marinated in a blend of traditional spices and pan-fried to perfection. Here's a detailed recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken pieces, preferably bone-in for extra flavor
• 2 onions, finely sliced
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 sprig of curry leaves
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste

Dry Spices:

• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder

Instructions:

1. In a blender, grind together coriander powder, cumin powder, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder to form a coarse spice powder.
2. Marinate the chicken pieces with this spice powder, yogurt, lemon juice, minced ginger, minced garlic, and salt. Ensure that the chicken is well coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
4. Add sliced onions, green chilies, and curry leaves to the hot oil. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and form a thick paste.
6. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet, along with any remaining marinade. Spread them out in a single layer.
7. Cook the chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally, until it's golden brown and cooked through. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
8. Once the chicken is cooked, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
9. Serve hot as a delicious appetizer or as a side dish with steamed rice or roti!

Chettinad Chicken Fry is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the vibrant flavors of the South Indian region. With its tantalizing aroma and irresistible taste, it's a dish that's sure to elevate any meal and leave a lasting impression on your taste buds!