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Chicken Chaap

Recipe by Sana Mazhar on InstagramAdded 5 November 2026.

20 minutes to prep, 30 to cook. Chicken Chaap is a rich Kolkata‑style chicken dish featuring a creamy coconut‑cashew gravy, aromatic spices, and a subtle saffron aroma. The marinated chicken becomes tender and flavorful, making it perfect for a hearty dinner served with paratha.

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Method

  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken leg quarters with blended onion, green chilies, ginger‑garlic paste, fried onion, cashews, grated coconut, poppy seeds, yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt; mix well and marinate for 2–4 hours.

  2. Heat the mustard oil in a pan over medium heat and add the marinated chicken pieces, frying until they develop a golden color.

  3. Add the remaining marinade to the pan and sauté until the oil separates from the mixture.

  4. Stir in the water, cover the pan, and cook on low heat until the chicken is fully cooked, stirring occasionally.

  5. Mix in the garam masala powder, the saffron‑milk mixture, and a few drops of kewra essence; cook briefly to combine flavors.

  6. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with paratha.

Tips while you cook

Marinate for best texture
Allow the chicken to marinate for 2–4 hours before cooking.
Brown before simmering
Fry the marinated chicken until golden before adding the remaining mixture.
Cover while cooking
Cover the pan and cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
Add finishing spices briefly
Stir in garam masala, saffron‑milk mixture, and kewra essence and cook briefly to combine flavors.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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Sana Mazhar made this.

The recipe comes from Sana Mazhar’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

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