Chicken Sukka Masala

Chicken Sukka is a spicy and aromatic South Indian dish where tender chicken pieces are cooked in a flavorful blend of roasted spices, coconut, onions, and curry leaves. The chicken is marinated in spices, then cooked with a rich masala paste until it’s tender and infused with the intense flavors of the spices. This dish boasts a balance of heat, tanginess, and the nutty richness of coconut, making it a popular and delightful addition to any South Indian meal.

Here’s a detailed recipe for making Chicken Sukka Masala:

Ingredients:

For Marination:

• 500 grams chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste

For Masala Paste:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 garlic cloves
• 1-inch piece of ginger
• 2-3 green chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cloves
• 3-4 dry red chilies (adjust to spice level)
• 1/2 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
• A small bunch of fresh coriander leaves (cilantro)
• Water (as needed for grinding)

Other Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Curry leaves
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Marinating the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, marinate the chicken pieces with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Set aside for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
2. Prepare the Masala Paste:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
   • Add garlic, ginger, green chilies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and dry red chilies. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
   • Now, add grated coconut and fresh coriander leaves. Sauté for a couple of minutes.
   • Let the mixture cool down and then grind it into a smooth paste by adding a little water if needed.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan or skillet. Add chopped onions and curry leaves. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
4. Add Chicken and Masala Paste:
   • Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Cook on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken changes color and is partially cooked.
5. Incorporate the Masala Paste:
   • Add the prepared masala paste to the chicken. Mix well to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the masala.
6. Simmer and Cook:
   • Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook in the masala paste. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Allow it to simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the masala thickens. It should take around 15-20 minutes.
7. Check Seasoning and Garnish:
   • Adjust salt if needed. Once the chicken is cooked and the masala reaches your desired consistency, turn off the heat.
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the flavorful Chicken Sukka Masala hot with rice, roti, naan, or any Indian bread of your choice.

Enjoy this aromatic and spicy Chicken Sukka Masala, which beautifully blends the flavors of spices and coconut, creating a delicious South Indian dish. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.