Chicken Chettinad – Authentic South Indian Chicken Curry

Chicken Chettinad is a fiery, aromatic chicken curry from Tamil Nadu’s Chettinad region, made with a freshly ground masala of roasted spices, coconut, black pepper, curry leaves, and onions. Rich in flavor and heat, it’s one of South India’s most popular chicken dishes.

Why it’s special:
The use of kalpasi (stone flower), fennel, and star anise makes this dish unique and authentic.

Serving suggestions:
Best paired with steamed rice, dosa, idiyappam, or flaky parotta.

Variations:
Can be made with mutton or fish for a Chettinad twist.

Nutrition highlight:
Rich in protein and antioxidants from whole spices.

Chicken Chettinad – Authentic South Indian Chicken Curry

Chicken Chettinad is one of the most popular South Indian chicken curries, known for its fiery spices and rich flavors. Made with freshly ground Chettinad masala, it’s aromatic, bold, and pairs wonderfully with rice or dosa.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian

Calories: 430

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Ingredients:

500 g chicken bone-in preferred
2 onions sliced
2 tomatoes chopped
2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
2 green chilies slit
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp chili powder
2 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp garam masala
2 tbsp coconut grated
2 tbsp oil
Fresh curry leaves
Salt to taste

Method

Instructions:

Roast grated coconut and spices until golden, grind into smooth paste.
Heat oil, sauté onions, chilies, and curry leaves.
Add ginger-garlic paste, then tomatoes, and cook until soft.
Mix in chicken pieces, turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
Add ground masala paste and 1½ cups water. Simmer until chicken is cooked.
Finish with garam masala and curry leaves.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with steamed rice or ghee rice.
Pairs beautifully with dosa, idli, or appam.
Add onion salad and lemon wedges for freshness.