✨ Introduction of Chicken Achari
Chicken Achari is a fiery and aromatic Pakistani curry inspired by the flavor of achar (pickle) without actually adding any store-bought pickle! This beloved dish uses whole spices like fennel, nigella seeds, and fenugreek, blending beautifully with yogurt and tomatoes to create a mouthwatering, tangy gravy.
With roots in Punjabi cuisine, this dish is traditionally made with mutton or beef, but the chicken version is quicker and just as flavorful. The key is in the achar masala, which brings that pickle-like tang and makes it taste authentically homemade.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Flavor Profile |
| 10 mins | 25 mins | 35 mins | 4 | Medium | Tangy, spicy |
Ingredients of Chicken Achari
For the Achar Masala (Pickle Spice Mix):
* 1 tsp fennel seeds (saunf)
* 1 tsp mustard seeds (rai)
* 1 tsp nigella seeds (kalonji)
* ½ tsp fenugreek seeds (methi dana)
* 1 tsp cumin seeds
For the Curry:
* 500g chicken (bone-in or boneless)
* 1 medium onion, finely sliced
* 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
* 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
* 2 green chilies, slit
* ½ cup yogurt (whisked)
* ½ tsp turmeric powder
* 1 tsp red chili powder
* Salt to taste
* 3 tbsp oil
* Fresh coriander for garnish
* Lemon wedges or julienned ginger (optional)
Detailed Instructions of Chicken Achari
🔹 1. Toast the Achar Masala
* In a dry pan, lightly toast all achar masala ingredients on low heat for 1–2 minutes until aromatic.
* Allow to cool somewhat before coarsely grinding in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Put aside.
🔹 2. Sauté the Base
* Add the cut onions to a pan with hot oil and cook until golden brown.
* Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
🔹 3. Cook the Chicken
* Add chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned.
* Stir in chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
* Cook on medium heat until tomatoes break down and the oil begins to separate (7–10 minutes).
🔹 4. Add Yogurt and Masala
* Lower the heat and add the whisked yogurt gradually to prevent curdling.
* Stir well and add the ground achar masala.
* Simmer, covered, until the gravy thickens and the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
🔹 5. Finish and Garnish
* Adjust salt and spice level.
* Garnish with chopped coriander, lemon juice, or julienned ginger for extra zing.
Serving Suggestions
* Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice.
* A cooling raita or simple cucumber salad pairs beautifully.
* Add achar on the side for an extra kick (if you’re really into tangy flavors!).
Nutritional Info (Per Serving: Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 320–350 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Final Thoughts
The traditional flavor and strong spices are celebrated in Chicken Achari. With its unique masala and tangy base, it brings the magic of homemade achar into a full-fledged main course. It’s easy to prepare, fun to serve, and unforgettable to eat.
