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Garam Masala Chicken Thighs

Irresistibly Creamy Garam Masala Chicken Thighs You’ll Love

Indulge in Garam Masala Chicken Thighs, a comforting dish with juicy chicken and creamy sauce.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Ideal for juiciness and flavor with a crispy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances the flavor; adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper Adds a mild heat.
For the Spices
  • 1.5 tablespoons Garam masala A fragrant spice blend.
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil or ghee Perfect for searing.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Builds depth in flavor.
  • 1 small Yellow onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness.
For the Sauce
  • 0.5 cup Chicken broth Creates a flavorful sauce base.
  • 0.25 cup Plain full-fat yogurt or heavy cream Delivers creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice Brightens the flavor.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped Adds freshness.

Equipment

  • oven-safe skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garam Masala Chicken Thighs
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and rub them with garam masala, kosher salt, and black pepper. Allow to rest for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat olive oil or ghee in an oven-safe skillet. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 6-8 minutes until crispy, then flip and sear for 2-3 minutes more.
  3. Reduce heat and sauté chopped onion for 4-5 minutes until soft, then add minced garlic and the remaining garam masala, cooking for another 60 seconds.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up brown bits. Let simmer briefly, then stir in yogurt/cream and lemon juice until creamy.
  5. Return chicken to skillet, skin-side up, spooning sauce over the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and juices run clear.
  6. Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with cilantro, and serve with basmati rice or naan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh garam masala for best flavor. Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning for crispy skin. Adjust cooking time for boneless thighs as needed.

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