Indian Tomato Chicken Recipe

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4.5 (1273)

Indian tomato chicken features chicken pieces coated with fragrant spices like turmeric, cardamom, and cloves, then simmered in rich tomato sauce. This aromatic preparation showcases how traditional Indian spices transform simple chicken into something extraordinary through proper layering of flavors. The combination of warming spices with tangy tomato sauce creates perfect balance in every bite. This fragrant dish demonstrates the art of Indian spice blending where each spice contributes to the overall harmony. The tomato-based sauce provides the perfect vehicle for these aromatic spices while keeping the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful.

Recipe blaster image 1757852714

Chicken pieces coated with many fragrant spices like turmeric, cardamom and cloves, then simmered in a tomato sauce. This dish is a family favorite. I have also taken it to potlucks and served it to guests in my home. Everyone asks me for the recipe!

Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
2 hrs
Total Time:
2 hrs 15 mins
Servings:
6
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Ingredients

1/2x
1x
2x

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped

  • 1 slice fresh ginger root

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom

  • 1 (1 inch) piece cinnamon stick

  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

  • 2 bay leaves

  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 6 skinless chicken thighs

  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed

Directions

  1. Place onion, garlic and ginger in a food processor and process into a paste. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add onion paste and saute, stirring continuously, for about 10 minutes.

  2. Stir in the cumin, turmeric, salt, pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, bay leaves and nutmeg. Saute, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes. Place chicken pieces in skillet and stir them around with the spice mixture until they are well coated.

  3. Saute for another 4 minutes, then pour in the tomatoes with liquid and stir. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 to 2 hours, or until the oil has separated from the liquid. Stir occasionally. (Note: If you simmer uncovered, the sauce will thicken; add water, or keep covered while simmering.)

    close up view of Indian Tomato Chicken over white rice on a plate
    Eloisa Andrea G

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

134 Calories
5g Fat
7g Carbs
15g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 134
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 5g7%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Cholesterol 57mg19%
Sodium 547mg24%
Total Carbohydrate 7g3%
Dietary Fiber 2g6%
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 15g29%
Vitamin C 9mg10%
Calcium 50mg4%
Iron 2mg13%
Potassium 363mg8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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John Davis
John Davis

Hi, I’m John Davis!
Food has always been my favorite way to connect with people, and that’s why I started blogging about it. I love sharing quick, creative recipes that prove cooking at home can be just as exciting as eating out. Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or a fun snack, I enjoy keeping things simple, flavorful, and approachable for everyone. When I’m not experimenting in the kitchen, I’m usually exploring new cuisines or hunting for fresh inspiration at local markets.

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