The Chicken Changezi recipe, often referred to as Mughlai Chicken Changezi or Murgh Changezi, stands as a testament to India’s rich culinary heritage. This dish is far more than just a chicken curry; it’s a regal, creamy, and exquisitely flavorful creation hailing from the opulent kitchens of Mughlai cuisine. Its unique taste profile and luxurious texture set it apart, making it a beloved choice for both everyday meals and grand celebrations. Legend has it that the origin of this age-old delicacy dates back to the formidable era of the Mongolian ruler Genghis (Chengiz) Khan, adding a fascinating historical dimension to its already captivating appeal.
This Mughlai delicacy has garnered immense popularity, particularly in the bustling northern regions of India, where it’s a star attraction in the historic eateries and celebrated restaurants of Old Delhi. Its rich and comforting nature makes it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions – from a comforting weeknight dinner with the family to an impressive centerpiece for special gatherings and festive feasts. The preparation, while seemingly elaborate, is surprisingly accessible, allowing home cooks to recreate the magic of a restaurant-style Chicken Changezi right in their own kitchens. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a delicious and authentic experience.
What is Chicken Changezi? Exploring a Royal Indian Delight
At its core, Chicken Changezi is a sublime, mild, and creamy gravy-based dish renowned for its exquisite richness. It is meticulously prepared using a harmonious blend of foundational ingredients such as fresh milk, creamy cashew nuts, luscious fresh cream, ripe tomatoes, and a fragrant medley of garam masala spices. Unlike many other Indian curries that rely heavily on robust, fiery flavors, Chicken Changezi distinguishes itself with a more subtle yet profoundly satisfying taste profile, where creaminess and delicate spice notes take center stage.
The historical roots of this dish are steeped in intrigue, with popular belief suggesting its inception predates the direct influence of formal Mughlai cuisine in India. While the Mughal Empire officially commenced with Babur’s rule in the 14th century AD, who subsequently adopted the term ‘Mughal,’ the legendary name of this dish is said to be inspired by the fearsome 13th-century Mongolian warrior, Genghis Khan (Chengiz Khan). This intriguing connection implies a much older lineage for the dish, hinting at culinary traditions that may have travelled with the Mongol invaders or evolved in their wake.
However, like many ancient recipes, Chicken Changezi possesses a mixed and somewhat ambiguous history. The exact origins and the definitive reason behind its name remain subjects of fascinating culinary debate and historical speculation. What is undeniable, though, is its evolution into a cherished masterpiece of Indian gastronomy, having absorbed and refined various influences over centuries to become the iconic dish we savor today. Its journey from a potential nomadic warrior’s meal to a refined Mughlai specialty underscores its enduring appeal and adaptability.
Crafting the Perfect Chicken Changezi: A Step-by-Step Culinary Journey
Creating this shahi (royal) Chicken Changezi recipe involves a distinctive two-stage cooking process that imparts its signature flavor and texture. The journey begins with preparing the succulent chicken pieces, which are first marinated to tender perfection. Traditionally, these juicy chicken cuts are then expertly roasted over a high flame, often using fragrant ghee (clarified butter), which lends a beautiful char, a rich aroma, and locks in the natural juices of the chicken. This initial roasting step is crucial, as it develops a depth of flavor that a simple stewing might miss. The high heat caramelizes the chicken’s exterior, adding complexity to the final dish.
Following the roasting, the chicken is then gently transferred into the luscious, creamy gravy, where it is allowed to simmer slowly over a medium flame. This simmering stage is where the magic truly happens. The chicken absorbs the rich flavors of the gravy, becoming incredibly tender and infused with every aromatic spice and creamy note. The slow cooking ensures that the gravy thickens beautifully, creating a silky-smooth consistency that coats each piece of chicken perfectly.
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its relative simplicity regarding whole spices. Unlike many elaborate Indian curries that require a long list of whole spices to be tempered and ground, Chicken Changezi primarily relies on powdered spices. If you have a good quality, pre-made garam masala, you are well on your way to success. This simplifies the process considerably without compromising on the authentic, rich taste. The focus here is on the quality of fresh ingredients and the careful execution of the cooking stages, allowing the natural flavors to shine through beautifully.
Why Chicken Changezi Stands Out: Unveiling Its Unique Allure
Chicken Changezi is more than just another Indian chicken curry; it’s a culinary experience brimming with unique qualities that make it a perennial favorite. Here’s what truly makes this dish special:
- Effortless Preparation in One Pot/Pan: Despite its luxurious appeal, this recipe is remarkably straightforward, requiring only one pot or pan for most of its cooking. This not only simplifies the cooking process but also drastically cuts down on cleanup time, making it a perfect candidate for busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss. You can have this exquisite curry ready in just about 45 minutes, from start to finish!
- A Family-Friendly Delight: Its mild yet flavorful profile ensures that Chicken Changezi is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The rich, creamy gravy is typically not overly spicy, making it a fantastic choice for families with young children or those who prefer milder flavors. Both adults and kids alike will relish the tender chicken and the luscious sauce, making it a harmonious addition to any family dinner table.
- Unparalleled Rich and Creamy Texture: The addition of a finely ground cashew-onion paste, fresh milk, and rich cream is the secret behind the gravy’s signature texture. This combination creates an unparalleled smoothness and a velvety mouthfeel that is truly indulgent. Each spoonful is a delightful journey of creamy richness, making it a dish that feels utterly luxurious.
- Super Cozy and Comforting: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, creamy curry, and Chicken Changezi delivers this sensation perfectly. A steaming bowl of this delectable curry, especially when paired with fluffy rice or warm naan, is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. It’s the ultimate soul food for a chilly autumn evening or a cold winter day, providing a comforting embrace with every bite.
- Customizable Heat Level: While traditionally mild, Chicken Changezi offers excellent flexibility for personalization. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your preference. For those who enjoy a fiery kick, a touch more red chili powder or some fresh green chilies can be added. Conversely, if you prefer it even milder, you can reduce the chili content or opt for Kashmiri red chili powder which provides color without significant heat.
- Fantastic Leftovers – Even Better the Next Day!: One of the best qualities of many curries, and Chicken Changezi is no exception, is how wonderfully they age. The flavors meld and deepen overnight in the refrigerator, often tasting even more delicious the following day. This makes it an ideal make-ahead dish for meal prepping or entertaining. It’s also incredibly freezer-friendly, allowing you to prepare a larger batch and enjoy this delightful curry whenever a craving strikes.
Essential Ingredients for an Authentic Chicken Changezi
To recreate this delightful Mughlai Chicken Changezi recipe, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and creamy texture that define this iconic dish.
- Chicken: For the most authentic and flavorful Murgh Changezi, bone-in, skinless chicken pieces are highly recommended. While chicken breast meat can be used for convenience, bone-in options like thighs or drumsticks will yield a far richer and juicier result, as the bones infuse the curry with additional depth during cooking. Avoid using pre-cooked chicken, as it won’t absorb the marinade or develop the same complex flavors.
- Yogurt (Curd or Dahi): Plain, fresh yogurt is indispensable for marinating the chicken. Its natural acidity helps tenderize the meat, ensuring a succulent texture, and acts as a base for absorbing the initial spices.
- Oil or Ghee (Clarified Butter): Traditionally, Changezi Chicken is often cooked entirely in ghee, which imparts an unmistakable nutty aroma and rich flavor. However, a combination of neutral cooking oil and ghee works beautifully, balancing richness with everyday practicality. Feel free to use only oil if you prefer.
- Onion: Essential for building the foundational flavor of the masala sauce or gravy. When sautéed and blended with cashews, it contributes to the dish’s body and sweetness.
- Cashew Nuts: A star ingredient, cashews are responsible for a significant part of the dish’s unparalleled richness and velvety creamy texture. For those with nut allergies or if cashews are unavailable, blanched almonds make an excellent replacement, offering a similar thickening and enriching quality.
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: The aromatic backbone of almost all Indian curries. It’s highly recommended to blend fresh ginger and garlic into a paste at home for the most vibrant flavor, though good quality store-bought paste can be used in a pinch.
- Tomatoes: Fresh, red, and ripe tomatoes are crucial for adding a tangy sweetness and depth to the gravy. Grating them by hand provides a rustic texture, while pureeing them in a food processor yields a smoother paste. While tomato puree can be a substitute, fresh tomatoes offer a brighter, more authentic taste.
- Salt: A fundamental seasoning, added to taste, to enhance and balance all the other flavors in the curry.
- Cumin Powder and Coriander Powder: These two essential powdered spices form the core flavor base of many Indian dishes. They provide earthy, warm, and slightly citrusy notes. If you have whole cumin and coriander seeds, you can roast and grind them fresh for an even more intense aroma.
- Turmeric Powder: Known for its warm, earthy flavor and distinctive golden-yellow hue, turmeric is a common addition. If not available, you can omit it without drastically altering the dish, though it does contribute to the traditional color.
- Kashmiri Red Chili Powder (or Paprika): This specific Indian variety of chili powder is prized more for its vibrant red color than its heat. It’s an ideal choice for recipes where you want a beautiful hue without an overpowering spice level. For a spicier version, you can substitute with regular red chili powder or a pinch of ground cayenne pepper, adjusting to your preference.
- Garam Masala Powder: A proprietary blend of aromatic ground spices, garam masala is the soul of many Indian curries and “subzis” (vegetable dishes). Using a good quality brand like MDH or Everest can significantly elevate the flavor of your Chicken Changezi.
- Chaat Masala: Also spelled “chat masala,” this tangy and savory spice blend adds a unique zesty dimension to the dish, enhancing its overall complexity. If chaat masala is unavailable, a final squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can provide a similar bright, tangy finish.
- Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves): This aromatic herb is a game-changer for Chicken Changezi. Crushing these dried leaves between your palms and adding them towards the end of cooking infuses the curry with a distinctive, slightly bitter, and highly fragrant flavor that elevates the entire dish to a new level of authenticity and deliciousness. You can typically find it in Indian grocery stores or purchase it online.
- Milk: Cow’s milk (or any preferred dairy alternative) contributes to the creamy base of the gravy, helping to achieve that rich, smooth consistency.
- Fresh Cream: A touch of fresh cream, either stirred into the gravy or used as a garnish, adds a final layer of indulgence and luxurious silkiness, rounding out the flavors beautifully. Even a small amount makes a significant difference.
- Warm Water: Used as needed to adjust the consistency of the gravy, ensuring it reaches the perfect richness and flow.
Expert Tips for a Flawless Chicken Changezi
- The Power of Yogurt Marination: The marination process with yogurt is absolutely critical and often overlooked as the KEY to exceptionally tender chicken. Even a 30-minute rest is beneficial, allowing the yogurt’s acidity and enzymes to work their magic. However, for maximum tenderness and flavor penetration, consider marinating the chicken for several hours, or even up to a day or two in advance. The longer it marinates, the more succulent and flavorful your chicken will be.
- Adjusting Water for Perfect Gravy Consistency: The exact amount of water required for the gravy can vary. Factors such as the natural moisture content of the tomatoes, the desired thickness of your gravy, and even the size and age of the chicken pieces can influence how much liquid is needed. Start with the recommended amount and gradually add more, a little at a time, until you achieve your preferred consistency. You want a rich, flowing gravy, not a thin, watery one.
- Spice Customization: While the specific spices outlined in this recipe are chosen to create the unique and authentic flavor profile of Chicken Changezi, don’t hesitate to experiment with the quantities to suit your palate. If you prefer a spicier curry, increase the Kashmiri red chili powder or add a pinch of hotter chili powder. If you enjoy a stronger aroma of specific spices, a slight increase in garam masala or coriander powder can make a difference. Always taste and adjust as you go!
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Chicken Changezi
The rich and creamy nature of Chicken Changezi makes it a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. To fully appreciate its exquisite flavors, consider serving it with:
- Naan Bread: Freshly baked, hot naan bread is arguably the most classic and satisfying pairing. Its soft, chewy texture and slight crispness are perfect for soaking up every drop of the luxurious gravy. Garlic naan or butter naan would be particularly delightful.
- Basmati Rice: Simple, steamed basmati rice provides a beautiful contrast to the richness of the curry. Its fragrant, individual grains allow the flavors of the Chicken Changezi to shine through. You could also opt for a subtly flavored rice like jeera (cumin) rice or saffron pilaf for an extra touch of elegance.
- Rumali Roti: For a more traditional experience, particularly reminiscent of Delhi’s street food culture, pair your Murgh Changezi with rumali roti. These thin, handkerchief-like rotis are incredibly light and perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Laccha Paratha: A flaky, layered paratha offers a textural contrast and a buttery richness that complements the chicken curry beautifully.
- Fresh Salad or Raita: To cut through the richness of the curry, a simple side salad of sliced onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes with a squeeze of lemon, or a cooling cucumber raita (yogurt dip), would be a refreshing addition.
No matter which accompaniment you choose, a well-prepared Chicken Changezi is guaranteed to tantalize everyone’s taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Changezi Leftovers
One of the many benefits of Chicken Changezi is how well it keeps, and often, the flavors deepen beautifully overnight. To ensure your leftovers remain delicious and safe to eat:
- Storage: Once the curry has completely cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it will keep fresh and flavorful in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for a few days.
- Reheating: For best results, gently reheat the curry in a frying pan over low to medium heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally until it is heated through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the chicken from drying out. If you’re in a pinch, you can also reheat it in the microwave; simply place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until piping hot. If the gravy has thickened too much upon reheating, you can add a splash of warm water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Freezing: Chicken Changezi freezes exceptionally well. Allow the curry to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Changezi
Can I make Chicken Changezi without cashews or nuts?
Yes, absolutely! While cashews are a traditional ingredient that significantly contribute to the creamy texture and richness of the sauce, you can certainly make Chicken Changezi without them, especially if you have a nut allergy. A good substitute for cashews is to increase the amount of fresh cream or add a tablespoon or two of poppy seeds (khus khus) or melon seeds, soaked and blended into a paste. These alternatives will still help achieve a thick and creamy consistency without nuts, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.
Can this recipe be made with boneless chicken?
Yes, this recipe can be successfully made with boneless chicken! While bone-in chicken is recommended for its ability to infuse deeper flavor into the curry, boneless chicken (such as boneless thighs or breast pieces) works perfectly for a quicker cooking time and easier serving. When using boneless chicken, be mindful that it tends to cook much faster. Adjust your cooking times accordingly to prevent overcooking, which can lead to dry and tough chicken. Ensure the pieces are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.
Can I use store-bought ginger-garlic paste?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought ginger-garlic paste for convenience. Many high-quality brands are available that produce excellent pastes. However, for the most vibrant, intense, and fresh flavor profile, making your own ginger-garlic paste from scratch is always recommended if time permits. Freshly ground paste will impart a noticeably brighter aroma and taste to your Murgh Changezi. If using store-bought, ensure it’s a good quality paste without too many additives.
What do I do if I can’t find chaat masala?
If you’re unable to find chaat masala, don’t worry, you can still achieve a lovely tangy flavor for your Chicken Changezi. Chaat masala adds a unique zesty and slightly savory kick. A simple and effective substitute is to add a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice or lime juice just before serving. This will provide a similar bright, acidic finish that helps to cut through the richness of the curry and enhances its overall flavor complexity.
Explore More Great Indian Recipes
If you’re looking to further expand your Indian culinary repertoire, be sure to try these other fantastic dishes:
- Chicken Jalfrezi
- Chicken Korma
- Andhra Chicken Curry
- Aloo Gobi Masala
We hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this incredible Mughlai Chicken Changezi. If you try the recipe, please take a moment to leave a comment and a rating below. Your feedback is invaluable, as we love hearing from you, and it also greatly assists other readers who are considering making the recipe. Happy cooking!
Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe: Restaurant Style
Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe (Restaurant Style)
Chicken Changezi is a rich, creamy, and truly delicious Mughlai delicacy. This age-old dish is steeped in history, with origins rumored to date back to the formidable era of the Mongolian ruler Genghis (Chengiz) Khan, bringing a royal touch to your dinner table.
Average Rating: 5 stars from 56 votes
Print Recipe |
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Pan with lid
Ingredients
For chicken
- 500 grams or 1.1 lb chicken (bone-in, skinless)
- ½ cup yogurt (fresh)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ⅓ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (non-spicy, or regular chili powder to taste)
- salt (as needed)
- 2 tablespoons oil (for roasting the chicken)
For onion cashew paste
- 2 medium size onions (chopped)
- 7-8 cashews
- 1 tablespoon oil (for frying)
For gravy
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 medium size tomatoes (grated)
- ⅓ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (non-spicy)
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh cream
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi
- ½ teaspoon chaat masala powder
- salt (as required)
- ½ cup warm water
Instructions
Marinate the chicken
- Combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, and red chili powder in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the chicken pieces to the mixture and mix thoroughly to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, refrigerate for a few hours up to a day.
Make the onion cashew paste
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cashew nuts. Sauté until the onions turn light golden brown and translucent.
- Turn off the flame and transfer the onion-cashew mixture to a blending jar. Allow it to cool down slightly. Once cool enough to handle, blend until you achieve a smooth, fine paste. Set this paste aside.
Roast the chicken
- In the same pan (or a different one if preferred), heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high flame. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Roast for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and partially cooked.
- Transfer the roasted chicken to a bowl and set aside.
Prepare the Gravy
- In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the grated tomatoes, turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt as required. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the pan and cook over medium-low heat for 7-8 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the oil begins to separate from the masala. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, crushed Kasuri methi, and chaat masala powder. Mix thoroughly, cooking for another minute until the spices are well incorporated and aromatic.
- Now, add the prepared onion-cashew nut paste, along with milk and fresh cream. Stir everything together until the gravy is smooth and uniformly colored.
Simmer the Gravy with Chicken
- Carefully add the previously roasted chicken pieces to the simmering gravy. Mix well, ensuring each piece is coated with the rich sauce.
- Pour in ½ cup of warm water. Stir to combine, then cover the pan and let it simmer over low heat. Continue cooking until the chicken is completely tender and cooked through, typically about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the gravy from sticking to the bottom.
- Once the chicken is tender and the gravy has reached your desired consistency, remove the pan from the flame.
Serve
- Your delicious Mughlai Chicken Changezi is now ready to serve! Garnish with a swirl of fresh cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance. Serve hot with your favorite Indian bread or rice.
Notes
- The yogurt marination is the KEY to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor. Marinating for 30 minutes is acceptable, but for optimal results, you can marinate it for up to a day or two in advance in the refrigerator.
- The amount of water required can vary based on the chicken’s size and moisture content, as well as your desired gravy thickness. Adjust the water quantity as needed to achieve a rich, creamy consistency.
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference. Kashmiri red chili powder gives color with mild heat, while regular chili powder can be added for more spice.
Nutrition Disclaimer:
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice. Actual values may vary significantly based on specific ingredients, brands, and preparation methods used. For the most accurate and personalized information, please consult a registered dietitian or use a reliable nutrition calculator.