Blog Details

If you're craving a rich, aromatic, and indulgent chicken dish that tastes like it came straight from a royal kitchen, Chicken Chaap is your answer. Originating from the Mughlai cuisine and famously popular in Kolkata, this dish features slow-cooked chicken in a luscious, nutty, and spiced gravy.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to make an authentic Chicken Chaap at home—with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

✨ What is Chicken Chaap?

Chicken Chaap is a slow-cooked chicken leg dish where the meat is marinated in a yogurt-based mixture with aromatic spices, then cooked in ghee until it becomes tender and flavorful. It’s often paired with Kolkata-style biryani or paratha, making it a rich and comforting feast.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 4 large chicken legs (drumsticks with thighs)

• 1 cup thick yogurt (hung curd works best)

• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 2 tbsp cashew nut paste

• 1 tbsp poppy seed paste (soak & grind)

• 1 tsp white pepper powder

• 1/2 tsp nutmeg powder

• 1/2 tsp mace (javitri) powder

• 1/2 tsp garam masala

• 1/2 tsp kewra water (optional but authentic)

• 1/2 tsp rose water

• Salt to taste

For Cooking:

• 4 tbsp ghee

• 2 tbsp refined oil

• 1 medium onion, sliced (optional, traditional recipes don’t always use it)

• A pinch of saffron soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk (optional)

🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Clean and pat dry the chicken legs.

2. In a large bowl, mix all marinade ingredients.

3. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight in the fridge.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat oil and ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan.

2. Add sliced onions if using, sauté until golden brown.

3. Gently place the marinated chicken pieces into the pan and cook on medium heat.

4. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Add saffron milk, kewra water, and rose water towards the end and cook for another 5 minutes.

6. The gravy should cling to the chicken with a rich, oily layer on top.

💡 Pro Tips

• Use chicken with skin if you want that authentic, royal feel.

• Cashew and poppy seed pastes are essential for the creamy texture—don’t skip them.

• For a deeper flavor, toast the garam masala before adding to the marinade.

🍽️ What to Serve With Chicken Chaap

• Kolkata Mutton Biryani (for the ultimate feast)

• Laccha Paratha or Roomali Roti

• Onion Salad & Lemon wedges on the side

❤️ Final Thoughts

Chicken Chaap is more than just a dish—it's an experience of rich flavors, heritage, and nostalgia. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply cooking for someone you love, this recipe is sure to impress.

Let me know in the comments if you tried this recipe, and tag your dish with #ChaapLove on Instagram!