How to Make Chicken Handi—Pakistani Clay Pot Chicken Curry
✨ Introduction of Chicken Handi
The clay pot, or “handi,” in which chicken handi is slow-cooked gives rise to the name of this traditional Pakistani stew. This dish is all about flavor: tender chicken simmered in a luscious, mildly spiced tomato- and yogurt-based gravy enriched with cream and aromatic spices.
Whether you use an actual clay pot or a regular pan, the magic of handi lies in its creamy texture and deep, layered taste. It’s a popular restaurant-style curry but very easy to make at home, perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or special occasions.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Flavor Profile |
| 15 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 4 | Medium | Creamy, Spicy |
Ingredients of Chicken Handi
For the Chicken:
* 500g boneless chicken (cut into cubes)
* 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
* 2 medium tomatoes (blended or pureed)
* ½ cup yogurt (beaten)
* 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
* ½ tsp turmeric powder
* 1 tsp red chili powder
* 1 tsp coriander powder
* ½ tsp cumin powder
* ½ tsp garam masala
* Salt to taste
* ¼ cup fresh cream
* 2–3 tbsp oil or ghee
* Add some green chilies and fresh coriander as garnish.
Detailed Instructions of Chicken Handi
1. Sauté Aromatics
* Heat oil or ghee in a handi.
* Sauté the chopped onions until they turn golden brown.
* Add the ginger-garlic paste & cook for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant.
2. Cook the Tomatoes
* Add pureed tomatoes to the handi and cook until the oil separates (about 7–10 mins).
* Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
3. Add Spices & Yogurt
* Add powder chili, need turmeric, need coriander, also cumin, and salt. Stir well.
* Lower the heat and slowly mix in the beaten yogurt.
* Cook for another 6 minutes or until thick and well mixed.
4. Add Chicken
* Coat the chicken cubes thoroughly with the masala after adding them to the handi.
* Cover and cook on medium heat for 12–15 minutes until the chicken is tender.
5. Finish with Cream & Garam Masala
* Once the chicken is cooked and the gravy is rich, stir in cream and garam masala.
* Simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken and balance flavors.
Serving Suggestions
* Serve hot over basmati rice, tandoori roti, or naan.
* For a refreshing side, serve with fresh salad or cucumber raita.
* For a royal touch, top with a dollop of butter or extra cream before serving.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving: Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 390–430 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Final Thoughts
Chicken Handi captures the soul of Pakistani home-style and restaurant-style cooking—simple ingredients, expertly spiced, and cooked with love. Creamy, comforting, and wonderfully aromatic, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
