Mughlai Chicken with Toasted Almonds and Golden Raisins
Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Mughlai Chicken with Toasted Almonds and Golden Raisins. This classic dish features tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced sauce, enhanced by the crunch of toasted almonds and the sweetness of golden raisins. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal, this recipe brings a taste of Indian royalty to your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh ginger
1 inch (peeled and coarsely chopped)
Garlic cloves
8 (peeled)
Blanched almonds
6 tablespoons (slivered)
Water
4 tablespoons
Ghee
7 tablespoons
Chicken parts
3 lbs
Cardamom pods
10
Cinnamon stick
1 inch
Bay leaves
2
Whole cloves
5
Medium onions
2 (peeled and finely chopped)
Ground cumin
2 teaspoons
Cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Yoghurt
7 tablespoons
Light cream
300 ml
Salt
1 1/2 teaspoons
Golden raisins
2 tablespoons
Garam masala
1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mughlai Chicken?
Mughlai Chicken is a rich and aromatic North Indian dish known for its creamy, nut-based sauce and royal heritage.
What does Mughlai Chicken taste like?
It has a savory, mildly spicy, and rich flavor profile with hints of sweetness from golden raisins and a nutty texture from toasted almonds.
Is Mughlai Chicken spicy?
This recipe is moderately spiced with cayenne pepper and aromatic whole spices, but the cream and yogurt help balance the heat.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include chicken, ghee, blanched almonds, golden raisins, light cream, yogurt, and a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon.
What kind of chicken is best for this dish?
The recipe calls for 3 lbs of chicken parts; bone-in chicken is traditionally used as it provides more depth of flavor to the sauce.
Can I use oil instead of ghee?
Yes, you can substitute oil, but ghee provides a distinct buttery aroma and flavor that is characteristic of Mughlai cuisine.
How do I prepare the ginger and garlic?
The ginger should be peeled and coarsely chopped, and the garlic cloves should be peeled before being processed into the base.
What is the purpose of the almonds in this recipe?
Blanched almonds are slivered and toasted to add a rich, nutty crunch and to help thicken the creamy sauce.
Can I substitute the light cream?
You can use heavy cream for a richer sauce or coconut milk for a different flavor profile, though it will deviate from the traditional taste.
Is this Mughlai Chicken recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed, including the spices, dairy, and nuts, are naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, this recipe contains ghee, yogurt, and light cream, making it unsuitable for those on a dairy-free diet.
Why are golden raisins used in this dish?
Golden raisins add small bursts of sweetness that contrast beautifully with the savory and aromatic spices in the sauce.
What is Garam Masala?
Garam Masala is a blend of ground spices used to add warmth, aroma, and complexity to the dish, usually added toward the end of cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Mughlai Chicken often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What should I serve with Mughlai Chicken?
It pairs perfectly with Indian breads like Naan or Roti, or with aromatic Basmati rice.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster than bone-in parts.
Is this dish suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely, its rich ingredients and royal history make it a popular choice for dinner parties and celebrations.
Can I freeze Mughlai Chicken?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to a month, though the cream-based sauce may require gentle stirring when reheating to maintain its consistency.
What makes this dish 'Mughlai'?
The term refers to the style of cooking developed in the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire, characterized by the use of nuts, cream, and expensive spices.
Can I use regular dark raisins?
Yes, while golden raisins are preferred for their mild flavor and color, dark raisins can be used as a substitute.
How do I toast the almonds?
You can toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan or with a little ghee over medium heat until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
Should I remove the whole spices before serving?
The whole spices like cardamom pods and cinnamon sticks are usually left in for presentation, but they should not be eaten.
What type of yogurt is best?
Plain, full-fat yogurt is recommended to ensure a smooth, creamy texture and to prevent the sauce from curdling.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, if you reduce the cayenne pepper, the creamy and slightly sweet nature of the dish is usually very appealing to children.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
While not traditional, you can add peas or sautéed bell peppers if you wish to include more vegetables in the meal.
How can I make the dish spicier?
You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh green chilies during the onion sautéing stage.
Why is ghee preferred over butter?
Ghee has a higher smoke point than butter and a more intense, nutty flavor that stands up well to the long simmering process.
Can I use chicken breast only?
Yes, but chicken breast can dry out more easily; it is recommended to cut it into large chunks and avoid overcooking.
Is this a traditional Indian recipe?
Yes, it is a classic example of North Indian Mughlai cuisine which emphasizes luxury and aromatic depth.