Looking for a chicken recipe packed with flavor? Let me introduce you to Indian Garlic Chicken, or as it’s called in India, Lehsuni Murgh. This dish is all about tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and a blend of spices that make every bite unforgettable. And the best part? It’s easier to whip up than you think. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this one’s a showstopper.

Quick Recipe Breakdown

Here’s the lowdown:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes + 4 hours for marination (worth it, trust me)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Serves: 4
• Skill Level: Easy
• Pro Tip: Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.

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What You’ll Need

For Marinating the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken (bone-in is best, but boneless works too)
• 10 garlic cloves, grated or smashed
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated or smashed
• ½ cup thick plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil work great)
• 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 green chili, chopped (skip if you don’t like heat)
• 1 medium red onion, sliced
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• Spices:
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp chili powder (or adjust to taste)
• Water (as needed for the curry)

For Garnish

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ teaspoon garam masala

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How to Make It

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Toss the chicken in a bowl with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt. Make sure everything’s coated well.
• Cover it up and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you’re planning ahead).

Why Marinate? It softens the chicken and lets all those rich flavors soak in. Totally worth the wait.

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Step 2: Start Cooking

• Heat oil in a deep pan. Before the oil gets too hot, add the sliced garlic and green chili.
• Let the garlic turn golden. Scoop out a few slices for a crispy garnish later.

Tip: Golden garlic = aromatic. Burnt garlic = bitter. Watch it closely!

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Step 3: Build the Flavor

• Toss in the sliced onions, sugar, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder.
• Stir it around over medium heat until the onions are soft and slightly caramelized.

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Step 4: Add the Chicken

• Scoop the marinated chicken into the pan. Stir it so the meat is coated in that onion-spice goodness.
• Cover and let it cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll see the chicken release its juices.
• Want a saucy curry? Add a little water and cook for another 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is tender.

Step 5: Final Touch

• Sprinkle on garam masala and fresh cilantro. Give it a quick stir.
• Let the curry sit for a few minutes before serving—it’ll taste even better.

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Make It Your Own

• Milder Flavors? Swap out chili powder for Kashmiri chili. It’s less spicy, but still adds great color.
• No Yogurt? Coconut milk works for a dairy-free option.
• More Veggies? Toss in spinach or bell peppers while it’s cooking.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this deliciousness with:

• Steamed basmati rice
• Warm naan or parathas
• A side of cooling cucumber raita

Feeling fancy? Garnish with those crispy garlic slices you saved earlier and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of water if the gravy’s too thick.

Freezing Tip: Skip the cilantro garnish if freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat when needed.

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This Indian Garlic Chicken is everything you want from comfort food—rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re just diving into Indian cooking or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!

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