Embark on a culinary journey to Karnataka with our latest recipe on Indian Recipe Duniya – the authentic and enticing Chicken Ghee Roast. Hailing from the heart of Karnataka, this dish is a testament to the rich tapestry of flavors that define South Indian cuisine. Imagine succulent boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of ginger, garlic, yogurt, and turmeric, then cooked to perfection in ghee. But that’s just the beginning.
The magic unfolds as we create a tantalizing paste of soaked Byadgi chilies and cashews, adding a burst of color and complex spiciness to the dish. With a symphony of toasted spices and the luscious richness of ghee, each bite of this Chicken Ghee Roast is a celebration of taste, texture, and tradition. Join us as we unravel the secrets of this culinary gem, inviting you to savor the irresistible flavors of Karnataka in your own kitchen. Get ready for a gastronomic adventure that promises to transport your senses to the vibrant landscapes of South India.
About Chicken Ghee Roast Dish:
Chicken Ghee Roast, a culinary gem from the heart of Karnataka, is a tantalizing journey for the taste buds, offering a symphony of flavors that capture the essence of South Indian cuisine. At its core, this dish boasts succulent boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a delightful fusion of ginger, garlic, yogurt, and turmeric.
The magic intensifies as the chicken meets the aromatic richness of ghee, transforming into a half-cooked canvas ready to embrace a complex symphony of spices. The real showstopper lies in the vibrant chili and cashew paste, crafted from soaked Byadgi chilies, lending the dish a beautiful ruby-red hue and a nuanced spiciness that tingles the palate.
Toasting coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, fenugreek seeds, and black peppercorns creates a fragrant spice blend, elevating the Chicken Ghee Roast to culinary perfection. The dish reaches its crescendo with the addition of palm sugar for sweetness, tamarind concentrate for a tangy kick, and a patient hour of resting to allow the flavors to harmonize. Whether served with rice, Paratha, or accompanied by a side of vegetable curry, this dish encapsulates the soulful warmth and vibrant flavors of Karnataka, making it a culinary masterpiece that lingers in memory long after the last bite.
Health Benefits of Homemade Chicken Ghee Roast Dish:
Chicken Ghee Roast, while indulgent and rich in flavors, also offers some potential health benefits, thanks to its combination of ingredients and cooking methods:
- Protein Source: The boneless, skinless chicken thighs in Chicken Ghee Roast provide a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body maintenance.
- Healthy Fats: Ghee, a clarified butter used in this dish, contains healthy fats that are believed to have various health benefits. These include healthy monounsaturated fats, which may contribute to heart health and provide a source of sustained energy.
- Antioxidant-Rich Spices: The dish incorporates a variety of spices, including fenugreek seeds, coriander seeds, and black peppercorns, which are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress in the body and support overall well-being.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some spices used in Chicken Ghee Roast, such as turmeric and fenugreek seeds, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These may help reduce inflammation in the body and support joint health.
- Digestive Aid: Ghee is believed to have digestive benefits. It contains butyric acid, which may promote a healthy gut by supporting beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The dish incorporates ingredients like ginger, garlic, and yogurt, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Garlic, for example, is known for its potential immune-boosting properties.
- Controlled Sugar Content: The use of palm sugar or jaggery as a sweetener is a natural alternative to refined sugar, potentially offering a slower impact on blood sugar levels.
- Tamarind for Tangy Flavor: Tamarind concentrate not only adds a tangy kick to the dish but may also provide some health benefits. Tamarind is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
While Chicken Ghee Roast can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, it’s important to consume it in moderation, especially considering its calorie and fat content. As with any dish, individual health considerations and dietary preferences should be taken into account.
Homemade Chicken Ghee Roast Recipe Video:
Ingredients for Quick and Easy Homemade Chicken Ghee Roast Recipe:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (you can use bone-in chicken)
- 1 tbsp finely grated ginger
- 1 tbsp finely grated garlic
- 4 tbsp plain unflavored yogurt
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 7 Byadgi chilies (soaked and deseeded) or Kashmiri red chilies
- Handful of cashew nuts (soaked)
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
- 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds
- 6-7 black peppercorns
- Ghee (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt to taste
- Palm sugar or jaggery (sweetener)
- 1 tsp tamarind concentrate
Step-by-Step Guide for Homemade Chicken Ghee Roast Recipe:
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, finely grated ginger, garlic, yogurt, and turmeric powder. Allow it to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before cooking.


Step 2: Preparing the Chili and Cashew Paste
Soak the Byadgi chilies (or Kashmiri red chilies) overnight, deseed them, and wear gloves to avoid chili burns. Blend the soaked chilies and cashew nuts with water to form a smooth paste, showcasing a beautiful ruby red color.



Step 3: Toasting the Spice Blend
In a pan, roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, fenugreek seeds, and black peppercorns until fragrant. Be cautious not to over-roast; we want to awaken the spices, not make them bitter. Grind the spices into a coarse powder.


Step 4: Cooking Process
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on high heat. Add the marinated chicken and spread it out to maximize contact with the pan. Cook until the water released from the chicken dries up and it’s half-cooked.


Now, add the chili and cashew paste along with the freshly ground spices. Adjust salt and continue frying on medium heat until the oil starts releasing from the sides, indicating a well-fried dish.


Step 5: Sweet and Sour Finish
Introduce palm sugar (or jaggery) as a sweetener and tamarind concentrate for a tangy kick. Adjust seasonings to taste, and continue frying until the oil separates.



Step 6: Final Touch
Let the Chicken Ghee Roast rest for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, making the dish even more delicious. Serve with rice, Paratha, a side of vegetable curry, and a refreshing salad.


And there you have it – an authentic Chicken Ghee Roast from the heart of Karnataka. This culinary gem is a perfect blend of spices, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Pro Tips for Homemade Chicken Ghee Roast Recipe:
- Quality of Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken thighs or bone-in chicken for a more succulent and flavorful dish.
- Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for an extended period, ideally overnight in the refrigerator. This enhances the absorption of flavors and results in a more tender and well-seasoned meat.
- Chili Selection: Use Byadgi chilies for an authentic flavor and vibrant color. If unavailable, Kashmiri red chilies are a suitable alternative. Soak and deseed the chilies to control the spice level while retaining the rich color.
- Cashew Soaking: Ensure cashews are soaked adequately to achieve a creamy consistency in the paste. This contributes to the texture and overall richness of the Chicken Ghee Roast.
- Spice Roasting: Toast the spices for the masala blend on medium heat, being cautious not to over-roast. The goal is to awaken the flavors without making them bitter.
- Ghee Temperature: When cooking the marinated chicken, heat the ghee on high initially to create a nice sear on the chicken. This adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall appearance.
- Half-Cooking Chicken: Stop cooking the chicken once it’s half-cooked before introducing the chili and cashew paste. This ensures that the chicken absorbs the masala flavors without becoming overly dry.
- Frying Masala Paste: Fry the chili and cashew paste until the oil starts separating from the sides. This step intensifies the flavors and results in a well-fried Chicken Ghee Roast.
- Balancing Sweetness and Tanginess: Adjust the amount of palm sugar or jaggery and tamarind concentrate to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Taste and adjust as needed during the cooking process.
- Resting Period: Allow the Chicken Ghee Roast to rest for at least an hour before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Incorporating these pro tips will elevate your Chicken Ghee Roast to a delightful and authentic South Indian culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions on Homemade Chicken Ghee Roast Recipe:
Can I use chicken with bones for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or bone-in chicken, depending on your preference. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes, but for optimal flavor, it’s recommended to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
What can I use if Byadgi chilies are not available?
Kashmiri red chilies are a suitable alternative. Soak and deseed them to control the spice level while maintaining the color.
Can I substitute ghee with another cooking oil?
Ghee adds a unique flavor, but you can use a neutral cooking oil if preferred. However, the distinct taste of ghee contributes to the authenticity of the dish.
Is it necessary to soak cashews before blending?
Yes, soaking cashews softens them, making it easier to achieve a smooth paste. It also contributes to the creaminess of the final dish.
How spicy is Chicken Ghee Roast?
The spice level can be adjusted by controlling the number of chilies and black peppercorns. Deseed the chilies for a milder flavor.
Can I prepare Chicken Ghee Roast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance. The flavors often improve over time. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Is tamarind concentrate necessary?
Tamarind concentrate adds a tangy flavor. If unavailable, you can use a small amount of lemon juice as a substitute.
Can I make it less sweet or omit the sweetener?
Adjust the sweetness by controlling the amount of palm sugar or jaggery. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer a less sweet dish.
How long should Chicken Ghee Roast rest before serving?
Let the dish rest for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, enhancing the overall taste.
Nutrition Facts about Homemade Chicken Ghee Roast:
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 kcal
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Total Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 8-10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Around 5-10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 2-4g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 100-120mg
- Sodium: Around 500-700mg
- Key Nutrients and Vitamins:
- Vitamin A: 10-15% of daily recommended intake
- Vitamin C: 5-10% of daily recommended intake
- Calcium: 4-6% of daily recommended intake
- Iron: 10-15% of daily recommended intake
Recipe Card:

Chicken Ghee Roast Recipe
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (you can use bone-in chicken)
- 1 tbsp finely grated ginger
- 1 tbsp finely grated garlic
- 4 tbsp plain unflavored yogurt
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 7 Byadgi chilies soaked and deseeded or Kashmiri red chilies
- Handful of cashew nuts soaked
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
- 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds
- 6-7 black peppercorns
- Ghee homemade or store-bought
- Salt to taste
- Palm sugar or jaggery sweetener
- 1 tsp tamarind concentrate
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinating the ChickenBegin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, finely grated ginger, garlic, yogurt, and turmeric powder. Allow it to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before cooking.
- Step 2: Preparing the Chili and Cashew PasteSoak the Byadgi chilies (or Kashmiri red chilies) overnight, deseed them, and wear gloves to avoid chili burns. Blend the soaked chilies and cashew nuts with water to form a smooth paste, showcasing a beautiful ruby red color.
- Step 3: Toasting the Spice BlendIn a pan, roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, fenugreek seeds, and black peppercorns until fragrant. Be cautious not to over-roast; we want to awaken the spices, not make them bitter. Grind the spices into a coarse powder.
- Step 4: Cooking ProcessHeat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on high heat. Add the marinated chicken and spread it out to maximize contact with the pan. Cook until the water released from the chicken dries up and it's half-cooked.Now, add the chili and cashew paste along with the freshly ground spices. Adjust salt and continue frying on medium heat until the oil starts releasing from the sides, indicating a well-fried dish.
- Step 5: Sweet and Sour FinishIntroduce palm sugar (or jaggery) as a sweetener and tamarind concentrate for a tangy kick. Adjust seasonings to taste, and continue frying until the oil separates.
- Step 6: Final TouchLet the Chicken Ghee Roast rest for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, making the dish even more delicious. Serve with rice, Paratha, a side of vegetable curry, and a refreshing salad.
Video
Takeaway:
The takeaway from the Chicken Ghee Roast recipe is a culinary experience that transcends ordinary flavors, offering a symphony of tastes that celebrate the rich traditions of South Indian cuisine. This dish combines succulent marinated chicken with the aromatic richness of ghee, creating a half-cooked canvas ready to absorb the nuanced spiciness of a vibrant chili and cashew paste. With a fragrant blend of toasted spices, a sweet touch from palm sugar, and a tangy kick from tamarind concentrate, each bite is a journey through the heart of Karnataka’s culinary heritage.
The Chicken Ghee Roast takeaway extends beyond its deliciousness; it’s an invitation to savor the art of balance, where sweetness and spiciness dance harmoniously on the palate. The meticulous preparation, from marination to the final resting period, ensures that every element contributes to a dish that is not just a meal but a cultural celebration on a plate. So, gather your ingredients, embark on this flavorful journey, and discover the warmth and authenticity of South Indian flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Stay Connected with Us!
Follow us for a delectable journey through the flavors of India! 🌶️🍽️ Join our culinary adventures and discover the best of Indian cuisine. Visit our website for more recipes and inspiration. Find us on Facebook and Instagram. #FollowUs #IndianRecipes