Punjabi Chicken in Thick Gravy Recipe

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4.6 (464)

Punjabi chicken curry features thick gravy with nice spicy flavor that's not too hot, allowing spice level adjustments for different family preferences. This regional specialty showcases authentic Punjabi cooking techniques that create rich, substantial gravies characteristic of North Indian cuisine. The thick gravy consistency provides satisfying texture while the nice spicy flavor delivers complexity without overwhelming heat. This not-too-hot approach makes the curry family-friendly while maintaining authentic Punjabi character and traditional spice combinations. The adjustable nature allows customization for different heat tolerances while preserving the essential flavors that make Punjabi chicken curry so beloved.

Close up view of punjabi chicken in thick gravy on white rice, garnished with fresh herbs, in a wooden bowl

This Punjabi chicken curry features a thick gravy with a nice spicy flavor that’s not too hot. You may adjust the heat by adding more serrano peppers. Serve over rice or with chapati or roti.

Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
1 hr
Total Time:
1 hr 25 mins
Servings:
8
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Ingredients

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1x
2x

Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger root

  • 1 cup water

  • 1 small tomato, coarsely chopped

  • 1 serrano chile pepper, seeded and minced

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 tablespoon garam masala

  • 1 tablespoon ground turmeric

  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

  • 8 chicken legs, skin removed

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

  1. Heat oil and ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Cook cumin seeds in hot oil-ghee mixture until seeds begin to change color.

  2. Stir in onion; cook and stir until onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger; continue cooking until onions are browned, about 5 minutes more.

  3. Mix in water, tomato, serrano pepper, tomato paste, garam masala, turmeric, and salt; simmer for 5 minutes. Lay chicken into sauce; mix gently to coat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until chicken is no longer pink near the bone, about 40 minutes. Garnish with cilantro to serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

325 Calories
22g Fat
4g Carbs
28g Protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 8
Calories 325
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g28%
Saturated Fat 7g33%
Cholesterol 102mg34%
Sodium 395mg17%
Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 28g55%
Vitamin C 5mg6%
Calcium 33mg3%
Iron 2mg13%
Potassium 323mg7%

* 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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