Shahi Chicken is a luxurious Indian curry that translates to “Royal Chicken.” This dish features tender boneless chicken breasts simmered in a velvety, aromatic sauce made from a blend of soaked cashews, fresh cream, and warm spices like garam masala, cardamom, and turmeric. The addition of golden raisins provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory depth of the tomatoes and onions. It is a perfect centerpiece for a special dinner party or a comforting weeknight meal that feels indulgent. Serve with basmati rice or naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Shahi Chicken
Description
Shahi Chicken is a luxurious Indian curry that translates to "Royal Chicken." This dish features tender boneless chicken breasts simmered in a velvety, aromatic sauce made from a blend of soaked cashews, fresh cream, and warm spices like garam masala, cardamom, and turmeric. The addition of golden raisins provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory depth of the tomatoes and onions. It is a perfect centerpiece for a special dinner party or a comforting weeknight meal that feels indulgent. Serve with basmati rice or naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.Ingredients
Directions
-
Place cashew nuts in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for 30 minutes, then drain most of the water.
-
Blend the soaked cashews in a blender until they form a somewhat smooth paste that retains some texture.
-
Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan or wok over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
-
Add 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder to the onions and stir briefly to release the aroma. Reserve the remaining garam masala for garnish.
-
Quickly add crushed garlic, crushed ginger, red chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder to the pan. Stir for about 30 seconds.
-
Add the chicken strips cut into 1-inch pieces. Mix well until the meat is sealed with the spices, about 2 minutes.
-
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
-
Pour in the cashew paste and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
-
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
-
If needed, add water to correct the consistency. You want a smooth, slightly thick sauce.
-
Raise the heat slightly and simmer until the oil begins to float on top of the sauce.
-
Stir in the golden raisins and cook for another 2 minutes.
-
Garnish with the remaining garam masala and cardamom powder before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 218.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22.6g35%
- Saturated Fat 3.4g17%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 234002.0mg9751%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.7g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.8g4%
- Sugars 2.1g
- Protein 0.6g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The original ingredient list was incomplete. For a complete Shahi Chicken, you will also need: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips), 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup golden raisins, 1/2 tsp cardamom powder, 1 tsp crushed garlic, 1 tsp crushed ginger, 1/4 tsp red chili powder, 1/4 tsp coriander powder, and 1/4 tsp turmeric powder.
To make homemade garam masala, grind together 5 cloves, 5 cardamom pods, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 bay leaf, and a pinch of mace until powdery.
For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or yogurt, though the texture will be less rich.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
