Hey there, food enthusiasts! Today, I’m taking you on a journey through the aromatic alleys of my kitchen, where the irresistible fragrance of spices mingles with the hearty goodness of chicken and chickpeas. What’s on the menu, you ask? It’s none other than murgh cholay – a dish that’s as rich in flavour as it is in history.

If you’re bored of your usual chicken curry than this popular Lahori chicken chana curry is for you. A traditional dhaba style murgh cholay recipe made with juicy chicken pieces and canned chickpeas in a spicy tomato masala. Warming spices and traditional flavours will guarantee deliciousness in every bite. Serve with homemade chapatti for an easy mid-week meal or serve with puri for a desi breakfast treat!

If you’re bored of your usual chicken curry than this popular Lahori chicken chana curry is for you. It is loaded with aromatic spices, creamy tomato sauce and succulent chicken. This chana masala chicken curry goes well with naan, parathas, or rice. Flavourful, healthy, and delicious. The chickpeas soak up the rich flavour of the masala gravy to create a subtle taste of flavour in every bite. A definite recipe to add to your cookbook!

Ingredients That Make the Magic

Now, let’s talk about the superstar lineup of ingredients that come together like a culinary dream team to create the enchanting dish known as murgh cholay. Each ingredient has its own role to play, and trust me, they play it with gusto!

Chicken: Picture this, succulent boneless chicken pieces, perfectly marinated and seared to golden perfection. It’s like the leading actor in this gastronomic show, stealing the spotlight with its juicy tenderness. But remember, you can go for the bone-in version if you want to channel your inner carnivore.

Chickpeas: These little wonders are like the supporting cast that adds substance to the storyline. I’m using canned chickpeas because I’m all about that convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, soak dried chickpeas overnight for that extra authenticity.

Onions and Tomatoes: Ah, the dynamic duo of the culinary world! Finely chopped onions and tomatoes lay the foundation for our curry. They’re like the scriptwriters, creating the plot and setting the stage for the flavours to unfold.

Ginger and Garlic: Freshly minced ginger and garlic are the sidekicks that kick up the aroma and add depth to the storyline. They’re the ones who make you go, “Mmm, what’s that amazing smell?”

Spices Galore: We’re talking about turmeric, and, of course, the fiery chili powder. These are the plot twists and turns that keep your taste buds engaged throughout the culinary journey. They’re the unexpected surprises that make Murgh Cholay so unforgettable.

Oil : The are the directors behind the scenes, ensuring everything runs smoothly. The unsung hero that make it all come together seamlessly.

Fresh Coriander: Last but not least, fresh coriander is like the confetti at the end of the performance. Sprinkled over the final masterpiece, it adds a burst of color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing and incredibly inviting.

So there you have it, the ensemble cast of ingredients that create the magic of this chicken and chickpea curry. Each one plays a vital role, bringing its unique flavour and character to the table. Together, they weave a culinary tale that’s nothing short of a masterpiece.

Vegan Vibes – Veggie Wonderland

Now, let’s dive into the world of culinary creativity and talk substitutions. Got dietary preferences or allergies? Fear not, my foodie friend, because the kitchen is your canvas, and we’re about to paint a masterpiece of flavors!

For my vegan pals or those looking to add more veggies to their plate, it’s time to embrace the wonderland of plant-based ingredients.

Bid farewell to chicken (just temporarily, don’t worry!) and say hello to tofu or tempeh. These protein-packed alternatives soak up flavors like a sponge and will have you doing the plant-based happy dance.

Remember, the kitchen is your playground, and substitutions are your tools for culinary innovation. So go ahead, experiment, and make this chickpea and chicken curry your own flavourful creation, whether you’re embracing vegan vibes or going gluten-free galore. After all, the best meals are the ones that reflect your unique tastes and dietary preferences. Happy cooking!

Serving Up the Deliciousness

Now, let’s talk about the thrilling moment when you’re ready to serve your chicken & chickpea curry masterpiece. This is where the magic happens, my friends, and I’ve got some delectable suggestions that’ll make your taste buds do the tango.

Fluffy Basmati Rice: A Bed of Elegance

Ah, fluffy Basmati rice – the trusty sidekick to your murgh cholay adventure. It’s like the soft, fragrant cushion upon which the stars of your dish recline. When serving, take a moment to admire those long, slender grains that have soaked up the flavours of your curry, turning each bite into a symphony of aroma and taste. You see, it’s not just rice; it’s the canvas upon which your culinary masterpiece is painted. So, fluff it up, pile it high on your plate, and prepare to be transported to flavor heaven.

Warm Roti or Naan: The Handy Scoops

Now, we’re talking about the unsung heroes of Indian cuisine – warm roti or naan. These delightful, freshly baked breads are your trusty scoops, your edible utensils, your partners in culinary crime. Tear off a piece, and let it embrace the chicken and chickpeas in a warm, doughy hug. The slight chewiness, the smoky aroma from the tandoor (or stovetop, if you’re like me), and the way they absorb the sauce like sponges – it’s a match made in foodie heaven. Don’t be shy; load up your plate with these bread wonders because every saucy, spicy bite is a journey of pure delight.

Fresh Salad: The Cool Crunch

Now, let’s talk refreshment. A simple cucumber and tomato salad is the cool, crisp companion your murgh cholay deserves. It’s like a zesty intermission in a symphony of flavours. The cucumbers offer a hydrating crunch, and the tomatoes burst with juiciness, while a sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander adds a touch of green elegance. Squeeze a bit of zesty lemon juice over it all, and you’ve got yourself a refreshing sidekick that cuts through the richness of the dish. It’s the palate cleanser that keeps you coming back for more.

Pickles and Chutney: Tangy Tidbits

To truly elevate your murgh cholay experience, consider the vibrant world of Indian pickles and chutneys. A dollop of mango chutney adds a sweet and tangy dimension that dances with the spiciness of the curry. Or perhaps you’re in the mood for some lime pickles – those zesty, tongue-tingling delights that awaken your taste buds with every bite. These tangy tidbits are like the plot twists in a culinary thriller, adding layers of excitement to your meal. Don’t hold back; let your taste buds explore the zingy, zesty world of Indian condiments.

So there you have it, my fellow flavour fanatics! When it comes to serving this curry recipe, the possibilities are as vast as your culinary imagination. Whether you stick to tradition or put your own spin on it, remember that each bite is a journey of flavours and textures waiting to be discovered. So, gather ’round the table, dig into this flavour-packed feast, and let the gastronomic adventure begin!

Check Out My Other Recipes!

As I was simmering the succulent chicken pieces in a rich tomato-based gravy to prepare my all-time favourite murgh cholay, my culinary imagination took flight, pondering over a selection of delectable dishes that would harmonize perfectly with it. Allow me to regale you with a selection of tantalising delights.

First and foremost, there’s the quintessential chana masala. Robust and brimming with aromatic spices, this dish is a true protein powerhouse, just like the hearty chicken and chickpea curry. The melding of spices with chickpeas creates a symphony of flavors that pairs divinely with warm naan bread or a generous serving of fragrant basmati rice. It’s an epicurean escapade you simply can’t afford to miss.

Now, let’s pivot to the world of chicken with an enticing chicken curry. Tender pieces of chicken bathed in a velvety gravy, it’s a culinary delight that will tantalise your taste buds. The succulent chicken and spices weave a gastronomic tale that’s nothing short of enchanting. Pair it with steamed rice or a flaky paratha, and you’re in for a taste sensation that’s truly extraordinary.

But wait, our culinary adventure doesn’t end there! How about indulging in some saag aloo where the earthiness of spinach and the comforting goodness of potatoes entwine in a delectable dance of flavours? It’s like a warm embrace on a cold winter’s night, a vegetarian counterpart to the chickpea and chicken curry that will leave you yearning for more.

Let’s not forget the delightful rajma masala. Those plump kidney beans simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato gravy create a dish that’s a feast for the senses. Much like the murgh cholay, the blend of spices and hearty beans make it a soul-satisfying treat, especially when served with a mound of fluffy rice or a stack of buttery rotis.

In conclusion, much like the delicate interplay of flavors in murgh cholay, each of these recipes offers a unique and delightful experience that complements the rich, spiced goodness of our beloved dish. So, embark on this gastronomic journey, savour these culinary treasures, and do share your culinary escapades in the comments below. I’m eager to hear about your delightful dining adventures!

Murgh Cholay

A traditional dhaba style murgh cholay recipe made with juicy chicken pieces and canned chickpeas in a spicy tomato masala. Warming spices and traditional flavours wil lguarantee deliciousness in every bite. Serve with homemade chapatti for an easy mid-week meal or serve with puri for a desi breakfast treat!

5 from 6 votes

Sadia Halimah Aziz

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 5 servings

Calories: 654kcal

Ingredients

• 70 ml Vegetable Oil
• 800 g Chicken
• 240 g Chickpeas canned
• 2 Onions finely diced
• 3 Tomatoes
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 1 inch Ginger crushed
• 1 tsp Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Kashmiri Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tbsp Fenugreek dried
• Coriander finely chopped

Instructions

• In a large pot heat up the vegetable oil on medium heat until hot
• Add the finely diced onions and chopped garlic cloves then cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are slightly softened and translucent
• Add the crushed ginger and cook for 1-2 minutes
• Add the chopped tomatoes then cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften
• Add the salt, chilli powder, turmeric powder add Kashmiri chilli powder then cook the spices for 4-6 minutes adding a few tablespoons of water to prevent the spices from burning
• Add the chicken into the pan then gently mix the spices and cook for 8-10 minutes until the chicken changes colour
• Add the water then allow to come to a gentle simmer before covering with a lid and cooking for 25-30 minutes until the chicken has almost cooked through
• Add the canned chickpeas and mix before covering and cook for 3-5 minutes – fresh chickpeas can be used but ensure that you leave to chickpeas to soak before hand and increase the cooking time accordingly
• Add the dried fenugreek leaves and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened to your personal preference
• Add the finely chopped coriander and crushed cumin seeds then cook for 1 minute until the oil has separated – the oil has separated when there are small bubbles appearing and the oil has formed a thin layer on top
• Your murgh cholay is ready!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 654kcal