Name: Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe (Restaurant Style) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mughlai Indian
Ingredients: 500 grams (1.1 lb) chicken bone-in, skinless; ½ cup fresh yogurt; 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste; ½ teaspoon garam masala; ⅓ teaspoon turmeric powder; ½ teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (non-spicy) or regular chili powder; Salt as needed; 2 tablespoons oil for roasting the chicken; 2 medium size onions, chopped; 7-8 cashews; 1 tablespoon oil for frying; 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter); 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 2 medium size tomatoes, grated; ⅓ teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (non-spicy); ½ cup milk; 2 tablespoons fresh cream; ½ teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves); ½ teaspoon chaat masala powder; Salt as required; ½ cup warm water

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If you are looking for a rich, indulgent dish that will impress everyone at your table, then this Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe (Restaurant Style) Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Mughlai preparation combines tender chicken cooked in a luxurious, creamy gravy packed with aromatic spices and nuts. The velvety texture paired with the vibrant flavors makes it a showstopper for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it has remained a beloved favorite in Indian restaurant menus and homes alike.

Ingredients You'll Need

A top view of a pot on a white marbled surface with a small amount of oil inside. There is a few crushed garlic pieces and some herbs in the oil. A woman's hand is holding a small clear glass bowl filled with more crushed garlic above the pot, about to add it in. The pot is round and black on the outside with a brownish inner surface. The scene is simple and focused on the cooking step. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For a dish as majestic as Mughlai Chicken Changezi, the ingredients are simple yet crucial. Each component plays a special role, from lending creaminess and body to the gravy, to creating a melody of flavors that defines this dish.

Chicken (bone-in, skinless): Provides juicy, tender meat that soaks up the spices beautifully.
Yogurt (fresh): Adds a tangy smoothness and tenderizes the chicken.
Ginger-garlic paste: The essential flavor base for that signature Mughlai aroma.
Garam masala: A blend of warm spices that rounds out the taste perfectly.
Turmeric powder: Gives a golden hue and subtle earthiness.
Kashmiri red chili powder: Adds color without overwhelming heat.
Salt: Enhances all other flavors.
Oil and ghee: For roasting and creating a luscious gravy.
Onions and cashews: Ground into a paste to provide creamy body and sweetness to the sauce.
Tomatoes (grated): Add slight acidity and color for balance.
Milk and fresh cream: Build the rich, velvety texture Mughlai dishes are known for.
Cumin, coriander, kasuri methi, chaat masala powders: Layers of complex and tangy notes to elevate the dish.
Warm water: Helps adjust the gravy consistency to your liking.

How to Make Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe (Restaurant Style) Recipe

Step 1: Marinate and Roast the Chicken

Begin by mixing the chicken pieces with fresh yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt. Let this marinade sit for at least 1 hour so the flavors deeply penetrate the meat. After marination, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan and roast the chicken until golden brown on all sides. This roasting step locks in juices and adds a wonderful smoky note essential for authentic taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Onion-Cashew Paste

While the chicken roasts, sauté chopped onions and cashews in 1 tablespoon of oil until the onions turn golden and soft. Once cooled slightly, blend this mixture into a smooth paste. This thick paste is key to the creamy, nutty character of the Mughlai gravy and helps give that restaurant-style richness.

Step 3: Making the Gravy

In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant. Then stir in the grated tomatoes and cooking spices like turmeric, Kashmiri chili, cumin, coriander, kasuri methi, and salt. Cook until oil starts separating from the masala, signaling a perfect base. Add the onion-cashew paste and cook further to blend the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Gravy

Add the roasted chicken pieces into the rich gravy. Pour in warm water to achieve your preferred consistency. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the luscious sauce and tenderize further.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in warm milk and fresh cream to enhance the luxurious texture. Finish with a sprinkle of garam masala and chaat masala powders for that perfect, tangy edge reminiscent of fine dining Mughlai cuisine.

How to Serve Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe (Restaurant Style) Recipe

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with several pieces of raw chicken coated in a thick, orange marinade. The chicken pieces are uneven in size and color, ranging from golden yellow to rich orange with smooth, wet textures from the sauce covering them. The marinade appears creamy and clings to the chicken, giving a glossy look. The bowl is partially filled, showing some clear glass at the edges, and the chicken pieces are piled casually inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped coriander or mint leaves make for an inviting pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of cream over the top before serving adds to the decadent presentation. You might also sprinkle some roasted cashews or slivered almonds to amplify the nutty richness that defines this dish.

Side Dishes

This Mughlai masterpiece pairs exquisitely with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside fragrant basmati rice or flaky, buttery naan to soak up every bit of the creamy gravy. For a contrasting crunch, a simple cucumber raita or fresh salad balances the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, serve the chicken on a bed of saffron rice garnished with fried onions and nuts. You can also offer mini copper bowls or traditional karahis to replicate the restaurant experience at home. Adding edible rose petals or a sprinkle of saffron threads elevates the dish’s beauty and authenticity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mughlai Chicken Changezi keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day!

Freezing

If you want to store it longer, freeze the chicken and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers. This way you can thaw and reheat portions comfortably without compromising texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen the gravy if it’s thickened. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can dry out the chicken. Slow reheating ensures your Mughlai Chicken Changezi remains tender and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken will cook faster and still absorb flavors well, though bone-in pieces typically yield juicier, more succulent results for this recipe.

How spicy is the Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe (Restaurant Style) Recipe?

This recipe uses Kashmiri red chili powder, which adds vibrant color and mild heat, making it flavorful but not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the chili levels based on your preference.

Is it necessary to use cream and milk?

The milk and cream bring out Mughlai cuisine’s signature richness and smoothness. While you can omit or substitute them for healthier options, it will alter the luxurious texture and taste significantly.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?

Yes! Mughlai Chicken Changezi tastes fantastic even after resting, so you can prepare it a few hours ahead or even the day before. Just reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve instead of naan or rice?

For a low-carb or gluten-free option, try serving with cauliflower rice or soft chapati. Even simple bread rolls can work for scooping up the creamy gravy.

Final Thoughts

If you are ready to bring a touch of royal dining into your kitchen, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Mughlai Chicken Changezi Recipe (Restaurant Style) Recipe. It’s a fabulous way to treat yourself and loved ones to something special, bursting with flavor and comfort. Once you savor this dish, it will surely become a star in your repertoire, calling you back for more soul-satisfying meals.

Ingredients You'll Need