Methi Chicken
Fenugreek Chicken Curry
Aromatic and flavorful Indian curry featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich gravy infused with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) and a touch of cream. The subtle bitterness of fenugreek is beautifully balanced by the creamy texture and spices, creating a unique and satisfying dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken
- 200 g Fresh methi leaves (fenugreek leaves)
- 2 medium Onions
- 2 medium Tomatoes
- 2 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 60 ml Heavy cream
- 2-3 tbsp Cooking oil
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp Garam masala
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 cup Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the cooking oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or pot over medium heat (approx. 180°C / 350°F). Add the finely chopped onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they turn soft, translucent, and then begin to caramelize to a golden-brown color. This process should take about 10-12 minutes. Avoid burning them.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 2
Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Add the chicken pieces, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Increase the heat slightly to medium-high and cook, stirring, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. The chicken should be sealed.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or tomato puree). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the masala, indicating the base is well-cooked. Add the chopped fresh methi leaves. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the methi wilts slightly. Pour in about 1/2 cup of water, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes - 4
Uncover the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and the crushed kasuri methi. Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld. Do not boil vigorously after adding cream. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Stir in the garam masala just before serving.
⏱️ 3-5 minutes - 5
Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of cream or fresh coriander leaves if desired. Methi Chicken pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
⏱️ N/A
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a less bitter flavor, blanch fresh methi leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds, then drain and squeeze out excess water before adding to the curry.
- ✓Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) provides a concentrated, smoky aroma and flavor that complements the fresh methi. Crush it between your palms before adding to release its fragrance.
- ✓The cream adds richness and balances the slight bitterness of the fenugreek. Adjust the amount to your preference.
- ✓Ensure onions are well-caramelized for a sweet base, and tomatoes are cooked down until the oil separates for a well-developed curry base.
- ✓Adjust the water quantity to achieve your desired gravy consistency.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream or use half-and-half.
- Substitute chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a vegetarian option. Add paneer cubes towards the end of cooking to prevent them from breaking.
- Add a pinch of red chili powder for a touch of heat.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of yogurt (whisked smooth) along with the cream for added tanginess.