What is Afghani Chicken Handi?
Perfect Afghani Chicken Handi is typically prepared in a clay pot, or “handi,” which intensifies the flavor and scent. This meal, popular in Afghan and North Indian homes, is smooth, fragrant, and mild due to its emphasis on yogurt, cream, and mild spices, in contrast to hotter curries. vcvds
1.. Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken (boned or boneless, chopped into medium pieces)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped.
- 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste.
- 1 cup full-fat yogurt, room temperature
- 1/2 cup fresh cream.
- 1 tbsp white pepper (or black if not available)
- 1 teaspoon of coriander powder.
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
- Salt to taste. Traditional Afghan Food
- 3–4 tablespoons frying oil or ghee
- Chopped fresh coriander and green chilies for garnish.
- Optional: 1 tbsp shredded cashews or almonds for extra richness.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Afghani Chicken Handi.
Step 1: Sauté the onion.
- Heat the oil/ghee in a handi or heavy-bottomed pan.
- Sauté the chopped onions until tender and golden brown. This may take 10 to 12 minutes.
Step 2: Add Ginger and Garlic Paste
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring in the ginger-garlic paste until the raw scent goes away.
Step 3: Add chicken
- Add chicken pieces. Sauté over medium-high heat until the chicken turns white and starts to brown slightly.
Step 4: Add spices.
- Combine salt, white pepper, coriander powder, and cardamom powder. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken.
Step 5: Add yogurt.
- Yogurt is carefully added into the pot.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the yogurt, stirring constantly. This stops curdling.
- Cook until the yogurt is completely mixed and the oil begins to separate.
Step 6: Add cream and nuts
- Stir in the fresh cream and crumbled nuts (if using). Mix well.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
Step 7: Finishing Touches.
- Sprinkle with garam masala.
Step 8: Garnish and serve.
- The meal is garnished with green chilies and coriander and served in a handi with naan.
- Garnish with chopped coriander and sliced green chilis.
- Serve hot alongside Afghan naan, paratha, or basmati rice.
Tips for a Perfect Afghani Chicken Handi
Use room-temperature yogurt and cream to avoid curdling.
Bone-in chicken adds more flavor, but boneless works for faster cooking.
Add nuts or grated cheese for extra richness (optional).
Clay pots give authentic flavor, but any thick-bottomed pan works well.
Serving Suggestions
- Afghan Naan or Roghni Naan
- Steamed Basmati Rice
- Kachumber Salad or Raita
- Afghan Green Tea or Doogh (Yogurt Drink)
Final Thoughts
Afghani Chicken Handi is ideal when you want something creamy, rich, and comforting – but not overly spicy. It combines the richness of Afghan-style cooking with a delicate blend of cream, yogurt, and mild spices.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this meal will dazzle. VISIT NOW