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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 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
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:
  1. Roast grated coconut and spices until golden, grind into smooth paste.
  2. Heat oil, sauté onions, chilies, and curry leaves.
  3. Add ginger-garlic paste, then tomatoes, and cook until soft.
  4. Mix in chicken pieces, turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
  5. Add ground masala paste and 1½ cups water. Simmer until chicken is cooked.
  6. 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.