The Chicken Chaukani Recipe is a rich and comforting Nepali-style chicken preparation known for its creamy texture and bold spices. Popular in many Himalayan households, this dish combines tender chicken with yoghurt and aromatic spices to create a flavourful gravy that pairs beautifully with rice or flatbreads. It is considered a wholesome, high-protein dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.
If you are wondering how to make Chicken Chaukani, the process begins with marinating chicken in yoghurt and spices. This step helps tenderise the meat while allowing it to absorb the flavours deeply. The marinated chicken is then cooked with sautéed onions, ginger, garlic, and traditional spices that give the dish its rich aroma.
Unlike many heavy curries, this preparation focuses on balancing creaminess with warm spices. The yoghurt creates a smooth and slightly tangy base, while ingredients like cumin, coriander, and garam masala add depth and warmth.
This Chicken Chaukani Recipe is often enjoyed as a hearty family meal, especially during colder months when rich, warming dishes are preferred. Now that you know how to make Chicken Chaukani, you can recreate this delicious Nepali classic in your own kitchen with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
500 gChicken (bone-in or boneless pieces)
¾ cupYoghurt (thick curd)
1 largeOnion (finely chopped)
5 clovesGarlic (minced)
1 tbspGinger (grated)
2Green chillies
½ tspTurmeric powder
1 tspRed chilli powder
1 tspCoriander powder
½ tspCumin powder
½ tspGaram masala
to tasteSalt
2 tbspMustard oil or cooking oil
2 tbspFresh coriander leaves (chopped)
½ cupWater
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Marinate The Chicken
In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with yoghurt, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, salt, and half of the ginger and garlic. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Description - Step 2
Prepare The Base
Heat mustard oil in a deep pan. Add chopped onions and saute until they turn soft and lightly golden.
Description - Step 3
Add Aromatics
Add the remaining ginger, garlic, and chopped green chillies. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
Description - Step 4
Cook The Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Stir well so the chicken is coated with the onion mixture. Cook on medium heat until the chicken begins to release its juices.
Description - Step 5
Add Spices And Simmer
Add coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and water. Cover and simmer until the chicken becomes tender and the gravy thickens.
Description - Step 6
Finish And Garnish
Once cooked, garnish with chopped coriander leaves and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.