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How to Make Creamy Cashew Chicken Handi: A Delicious North Indian Delicacy

This Chicken Handi recipe brings the flavors of North India to your kitchen with its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and luscious cashew cream sauce. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

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Recipe Details

Prep Time

30 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating)

Cook Time

45 minutes

Servings

6

Difficulty

Intermediate

Simple Summary

Chicken Handi with Cream and Cashews is a luxurious North Indian dish that combines tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy cashew sauce, perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating)
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

  • 1 kg boneless chicken, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cups plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 4 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 cup cashew nuts, soaked and blended into a paste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • 1/4 cup cashew nuts, roughly chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

  2. Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or handi over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.

  3. Add tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala.

  4. Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade. Cook on medium-high heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

  6. Stir in the cashew paste and cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

  7. Add the remaining 1 tsp garam masala and adjust salt to taste.

  8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and chopped cashews before serving.

Chef's Notes

  • For a richer flavor, roast the cashews before blending them into a paste.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
  • This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving. It often tastes even better the next day!
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute paneer or mixed vegetables for the chicken.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: 40g
  • Fat: 45g (healthy fats from cashews and yogurt)
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Rich in vitamins A and C from tomatoes and spices
  • Good source of calcium from yogurt

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Handi hot with naan bread or steamed basmati rice. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of cucumber raita and a simple green salad. This dish is perfect for dinner parties or special family gatherings. Garnish with additional cashews and a sprinkle of garam masala for an elegant presentation.