There are certain dishes that instantly transport you to a royal dining experience, where every bite feels indulgent, aromatic, and layered with centuries of culinary tradition. Ultimate Chicken Changezi Rich Mughlai Delight is one of those extraordinary recipes. Perfect for festive dinners, family celebrations, or whenever you want to elevate an ordinary evening into something truly special, this dish delivers bold spices, creamy texture, and tender chicken in every spoonful.
Inspired by the grandeur of Mughlai cuisine, Chicken Changezi is known for its luxurious tomato-based gravy enriched with cream, nuts, and warm spices. This homemade version captures that restaurant-style richness while remaining approachable for the home cook. The result is a beautifully balanced curry that pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice.
What Is Chicken Changezi?
Chicken Changezi is a North Indian curry rooted in Mughlai culinary tradition. It is famous for:
- A rich tomato-based gravy
- Creamy texture enhanced with dairy and nuts
- Aromatic whole and ground spices
- Tender, flavorful chicken pieces
Unlike lighter curries, Chicken Changezi focuses on depth, warmth, and luxurious mouthfeel.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) bone-in or boneless chicken pieces
- ½ cup (120 g) plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground cumin
For the Changezi Gravy
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) oil or ghee
- 2 medium onions, finely sliced (about 1 ½ cups / 225 g)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ginger-garlic paste
- 2 cups (480 ml) tomato puree
- ¼ cup (30 g) cashews, soaked in warm water 15 minutes
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) garam masala
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) Kashmiri chili powder (for color)
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) butter
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons (8 g) chopped fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine:
- ½ cup (120 g) yogurt
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ginger-garlic paste
- Salt, turmeric, chili powder, and cumin
Add chicken pieces and coat thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Cashew Paste
Drain soaked cashews and blend with 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) water into a smooth paste. Set aside.
3. Cook the Onions
Heat 3 tablespoons (45 ml) oil or ghee in a heavy pan over medium heat.
Add sliced onions and cook 8–10 minutes until golden brown.
Stir in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ginger-garlic paste and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Gravy
Add tomato puree and cook 8–10 minutes until oil begins to separate from the mixture.
Stir in:
- Coriander powder
- Turmeric
- Kashmiri chili powder
- Salt
Cook for 2–3 minutes to allow spices to bloom.
Add cashew paste and simmer 3–4 minutes.
5. Add the Chicken
Add marinated chicken to the pan.
Cook covered for 15–20 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Finish with Cream and Butter
Lower heat and stir in:
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) butter
- Garam masala
- Optional sugar
Simmer gently for 5 minutes until sauce thickens and becomes velvety.
Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Why This Recipe Works
Yogurt Marinade
Tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with spices before cooking.
Cashew Paste
Creates luxurious body without overpowering the tomato base.
Slow Cooking
Allows flavors to deepen and integrate fully.
Finishing with Cream and Butter
Adds signature Mughlai richness and smoothness.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Changezi pairs beautifully with:
- Butter naan
- Tandoori roti
- Jeera rice
- Plain basmati rice
- Laccha paratha
Add a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Tips for Authentic Flavor
- Cook tomatoes thoroughly until oil separates.
- Use Kashmiri chili powder for vibrant color without excessive heat.
- Simmer gently after adding cream.
- Adjust spice level according to preference.
- Let the curry rest 10 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water or cream.
- Freeze up to 2 months for best quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes. Boneless thighs or breasts work well. Adjust cooking time slightly if using smaller pieces.
2. Is Chicken Changezi very spicy?
It is moderately spiced but not overly hot. Adjust chili powder to your taste.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute cream with coconut cream, though the flavor will change from traditional Mughlai style.
4. Why is my gravy too thick?
Add 2–4 tablespoons (30–60 ml) warm water or broth to loosen the consistency.
Final Thoughts
Ultimate Chicken Changezi Rich Mughlai Delight is a celebration of bold spices, creamy textures, and culinary heritage. It captures the luxurious essence of Mughlai cuisine while remaining achievable in a home kitchen.
The careful layering of flavors — from the yogurt-marinated chicken to the slow-cooked tomato gravy enriched with cashew paste and cream — creates a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced. Every spoonful offers warmth, richness, and comforting depth.
Whether served for a festive gathering or a special weekend dinner, this recipe brings elegance and satisfaction to the table. Once you master this rich and aromatic curry, it will quickly become a treasured favorite in your collection.
