Easy Chicken Pakistani Recipe

Craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and steeped in tradition? This Chicken Pakistani recipe combines aromatic spices and rich ingredients, bringing the warmth of Pakistani cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and satisfy your soul.

What is Chicken Pakistani?

“Chicken Pakistani” isn’t a specific, widely recognized dish but rather a general term that refers to chicken prepared in a style typical of Pakistani cuisine. Pakistani chicken dishes are known for their rich flavors, aromatic spices, and vibrant colors.

These dishes often include ingredients like garlic, ginger, onions, tomatoes, yogurt, and a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder.

Popular examples of Pakistani chicken dishes include Chicken Karahi, Chicken Biryani, Chicken Korma, and Chicken Handi. Each of these dishes has its own unique preparation method and flavor profile, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions of Pakistan.

What ingredients are needed to make Chicken Pakistani?

In this recipe for a vegan Chicken Pakistani dish, each ingredient plays a vital role in building the dish’s rich, authentic flavors:

Vegan Chicken: This plant-based protein substitute mimics the texture of traditional chicken and absorbs the flavors of the spices and sauce, making it a satisfying meat-free alternative.

Onions are typically sautéed until golden brown, forming the base of the dish. They add a sweet and savory depth, balancing the bold spices.

Ground cumin is used to enhance the earthy, nutty flavors in the dish. It is usually added early in the cooking process to toast in the hot oil, releasing its aromatic qualities.

Freshly grated or minced ginger adds a spicy, slightly sweet kick to the recipe. It pairs well with garlic and is crucial for authentic flavor.

Turmeric: This vibrant yellow spice gives the dish its characteristic color and a warm, slightly bitter taste. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it both flavorful and healthy.

Fresh or canned tomatoes are cooked down to create a rich, tangy base that combines with the spices to form a thick, flavorful gravy.

Chili Powder: This spice adds heat to the dish, with its intensity depending on the type used. It complements the other spices, creating a balanced heat level.

Whole red chilies or dried chili flakes are added for an extra kick. They can be adjusted to taste, offering more heat and a deeper chili flavor.

Dairy-Free Yogurt: This vegan-friendly yogurt is used to add creaminess and tang to the sauce without the use of dairy. It helps mellow out the spices and brings a rich texture to the dish.

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful, aromatic dish that is both satisfying and true to the spirit of traditional Pakistani cuisine, while being completely plant-based.

How to make Chicken Pakistani?

Begin with finely chopping the onions and the red chili. Also prepare the tomatoes by removing the liquid parts and cutting the rest into cubes.

Heat vegetable oil in a medium-sized frying pan. When hot, add the onions and red chili and sautee for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent.

Next, give the vegan chicken and the all the spices to the pan. Mix well and fry all for 5 minutes until golden brown. Also add the tomatoes and let all simmer on medium heat for 2 minutes.

Now stir in the yogurt and let it warm up. You should have a nice and creamy sauce for your Chicken Pakistani now. 

Garnish with cilantro and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Here are three serving suggestions for your vegan Chicken Pakistani dish:

1. Serve the dish over steamed basmati rice, which will absorb the rich, flavorful sauce. The light and fluffy texture of the rice pairs perfectly with the spiced gravy, making it a classic and comforting combination.
2. Accompany the dish with warm naan or roti, ideal for scooping up the vegan chicken and sauce. The soft, chewy bread adds a satisfying contrast to the dish’s textures and flavors.
3. With a Side of Cucumber Raita: Pair the dish with a refreshing cucumber raita made from dairy-free yogurt, diced cucumber, and a sprinkle of cumin. The coolness of the raita balances the heat and spices, offering a light and complementary side.

Ideas and Variations

Here are five delicious variations of the vegan Chicken Pakistani dish:

• Vegan Chicken Karahi: Add bell peppers and fresh tomatoes, and cook the vegan chicken in a traditional karahi (wok). Finish with a garnish of fresh cilantro and ginger julienne for a zesty, flavorful twist.
• Vegan Chicken Biryani: Layer the vegan chicken with basmati rice, fried onions, and saffron-infused water, then bake or steam the dish for a fragrant, one-pot meal that’s rich in spices and textures.
• Vegan Chicken Korma: Substitute the tomato base with a creamy, cashew or almond-based sauce for a milder, nutty flavor. Add whole spices like cardamom and cloves for a royal, aromatic experience.
• Vegan Butter Chicken: Create a creamy, slightly sweet version by adding coconut milk or cashew cream, along with a touch of maple syrup or sugar, to the tomato sauce. Serve with dairy-free butter for a rich, indulgent treat.
• Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala: Marinate the vegan chicken in dairy-free yogurt and spices, then grill or pan-fry before simmering in a spiced tomato and cream sauce. The grilling step adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Other Recipes to Try

• One Pot Chickpea Biryani
• Chickpea Tikka Masala
• Tikka Masala Sauce
• Chana Masala
• Butter Chicken

 

I hope you enjoyed making this flavorful vegan Chicken Pakistani dish as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you!

If you give it a try, please leave a comment below with your star rating and let me know how it turned out. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it on Instagram and Facebook.

Happy cooking!