New Delhi: There is a certain warmth to a traditional Kerala-style chicken curry, a depth of flavour that comes from slow cooking, freshly ground spices, coconut richness, and the comforting aroma of curry leaves. This dish reflects the culinary heritage of Kerala, where food is not just about taste but about storytelling. An authentic Kerala chicken curry feels like a warm hug on a long day, making it the perfect dinner recipe to bring comfort and richness to your table.
Below is a beautifully detailed guide to help you recreate the same traditional flavours at home, even if you’re a beginner and looking to enjoy great flavours with rice or roti for a perfect dinner at home.
Kerala-style chicken curry recipe
For the Curry
- 750 g chicken
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2–3 green chillies, slit
- 1 sprig of curry leaves
- ½ cup thick coconut milk
- 1 cup thin coconut milk
- 3 tbsp coconut oil
- Salt to taste
For the Spice Mix (Kerala Masala)
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 4–5 dried red chillies
- ½ tsp fennel seeds
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 3–4 cloves
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala (optional)
How to make:
Dry roast coriander, pepper, fennel, cinnamon, cloves and red chillies on a low flame. Mix in the turmeric powder to prepare fresh Kerala Masala. Heat coconut oil in a pan and add curry leaves, green chillies and sliced onions. Cook the onion until golden brown and caramelised. Mix ginger-garlic and saute. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft. Now add freshly ground Kerala masala and let it cook for 3 minutes. Add pieces of chicken and coat them well in masala. Cook for 5 minutes on a low flame and add salt. Gently add a thin layer of coconut milk and cover it. Cook for 20 minutes to let the chicken absorb the flavours. Take another pan and add oil along with curry leaves, 2-3 sliced onions, pinch of red chilli. Pour the tempering over the curry and serve hot. Try bringing the original flavours of South India home with this super easy yet delicious recipe that can be prepared easily for family gatherings or a soulful dinner evening. Check this recipe and follow the step-by-step guide for a delicious aroma.