Jeera Chicken is one of those comforting dishes that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. The star of this dish is cumin (jeera), which gives it a distinct earthy flavor. I learned this recipe from my mom, and it’s become my go-to when I want something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques.
About the Recipe
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. You’ll love how the cumin seeds pop in hot oil, releasing their nutty aroma. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the gravy has just the right consistency to pair with rice or bread. It’s not too spicy, so you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, it’s super adaptable – make it dry or with gravy, spicy or mild. The cooking process is straightforward, with clear steps anyone can follow. You probably have most ingredients in your pantry already. The dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day.
Jeera Chicken
Cooking Tips
– Toast the cumin seeds until they’re fragrant but not burnt
– Don’t skip grating the onions – it helps create a smooth gravy
– Let the chicken brown properly before adding water
– Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking
– Adjust the water quantity based on your preferred gravy consistency
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-6 people. Total prep and cooking time: 30-35 minutes. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain the consistency.
Similar Recipes
- Kadai Chicken
- Pepper Chicken
- Dhaba-style Chicken Curry
Nutrient Benefits
This dish is protein-rich from the chicken and contains beneficial spices. Cumin aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger and garlic boost immunity, while the spices provide antioxidants. It’s a relatively healthy option that’s low in carbs when served without rice.
Jeera Chicken
Ingredients
- 800 gms Chicken
- 3 tbsp Oil
- 1 tbsp Cumin seeds
- 3 Green chillies (finely chopped)
- 2 Onion (medium sized and grated)
- 2 tsp Garlic (grated)
- 8 tsp Ginger (grated)
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Garam masala powder
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- Freshly milled pepper as per taste
- 1 cup Hot water
- Salt as per taste
For garnishing:
- Cumin powder as required
Instructions
- Fry the cumin seeds in hot oil till they crackle, then add the green chillies and onions and fry for about 3 minutes or till the onions get golden brown.
- Add the chicken pieces and stir fry for about 8 minutes or till the chicken pieces get brown.
- Add and thoroughly mix all the other ingredients.
- Cover the pan and cook on medium heat for about 15 minutes or till the chicken pieces are done.
- More hot water can be added as per requirement to cook the chicken pieces or to increase the gravy. Cover the cook on low heat till done.
- Garnish with a sprinkling of cumin powder.
- Serve with rice or roti.
Note:
- If boneless chicken is used, then the amount should be reduced to half and the cooking time must also be reduced accordingly keeping the other ingredients same.
- The consistency of gravy can be increased or decreased as per taste preference.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken instead?
Yes. Use 400g boneless chicken instead of 800g bone-in chicken. The cooking time will reduce to about 10-12 minutes, but keep all other ingredients the same.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the number of green chilies and black pepper. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for less heat while maintaining the flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Actually, the flavors develop better when made a day ahead. Store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
2 comments
good
superb i likd it