Chicken Dopiaza: A Flavorful Indian Classic
Chicken Dopiaza, a beloved dish from the Indian subcontinent, is a flavorful and aromatic curry that’s perfect for any occasion. The name “Dopiaza” translates to “double onions,” which is the star ingredient of this dish. With its rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, this curry is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or just looking to try something new, this Chicken Dopiaza recipe is sure to impress!
Why This Chicken Dopiaza Recipe Works
This Chicken Dopiaza recipe is a winner because it’s packed with bold flavors and uses simple, accessible ingredients. The combination of caramelized onions, aromatic spices, and tender chicken creates a dish that’s both comforting and exotic. Plus, it’s customizable—you can adjust the spice level to suit your preference, making it as mild or as hot as you like.
Another reason this recipe works is its versatility. You can serve it with rice, naan, or even quinoa for a healthier twist. It’s also a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
What’s In Chicken Dopiaza?
The magic of Chicken Dopiaza lies in its simplicity and the use of double onions. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Onions: The star ingredient! You’ll use onions in two ways—caramelized for sweetness and raw for texture.
- Spices: A blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala creates the signature Dopiaza flavor.
- Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes add acidity and richness to the sauce.
- Yogurt: Adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and green chilies form the flavor foundation of the curry.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish and a fresh finish.
How To Make Chicken Dopiaza
This Chicken Dopiaza recipe is straightforward and requires a bit of patience for the onions to caramelize and the flavors to develop. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt.
- Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add half of the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized (about 15-20 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s lightly browned on all sides.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the remaining raw onions and sauté until softened.
- Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Add the browned chicken back to the pot and stir to coat it in the sauce.
- Pour in a cup of water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Slow Cook
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the curry simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful.
- Stir in the caramelized onions and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Stir in fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or roti.
Sides for Chicken Dopiaza
Pair your Chicken Dopiaza with these delicious sides:
- Steamed Basmati Rice: The perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Garlic Naan: Soft and fluffy, ideal for scooping up every last bit of curry.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side to balance the heat.
- Pickled Onions: Adds a tangy crunch to complement the rich curry.
Recipe FAQ’s
How Spicy Is Chicken Dopiaza?
Chicken Dopiaza is traditionally a mild to medium-spicy curry, but you can adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the amount of green chilies.
Can I Use a Slow Cooker?
Yes! After browning the chicken and cooking the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
How Long Does Chicken Dopiaza Last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day!
Other Recipes To Try
- Butter Chicken: A creamy, tomato-based curry that’s rich and comforting.
- Chicken Tikka Masala: Grilled chicken in a spiced tomato and cream sauce.
- Lamb Rogan Josh: A fragrant and spicy lamb curry from Kashmir.
- Vegetable Korma: A mild and creamy vegetable curry packed with flavor.
Chicken Dopiaza
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs 900g chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp ginger minced
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt
For the Curry:
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 large onions thinly sliced (divided)
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp ginger minced
- 2 green chilies slit
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix well, cover, and marinate for 30 minutes.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat oil in a large pot. Add half of the onions and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same pot, add the marinated chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the remaining onions until softened. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes. Add chicken and water. Bring to a simmer.
- Slow Cook: Cover and simmer on low for 30-40 minutes, until chicken is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Stir in caramelized onions and cilantro. Serve with rice or naan.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the green chilies to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead: The curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Dopiaza! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!