chicken masala fry recipe
If you love bold Indian flavours but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this 15-Minute Chicken Masala Fry will be your new favourite. There’s no grinding and no frying onions — just mix everything in one bowl and cook. I marinated the chicken for about 10 minutes to let the spices soak in, but that step is completely optional if you’re in a hurry.
Chicken Masala Fry
Ingredients
Ingredients For Marination
- 500 g Boneless chicken thigh
- 2 tsp Ginger garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 3/4 tsp Pepper powder
- 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Garam masala powder
- 1 tsp Kasuri methi roasted
- 2 Onion medium size
- 3 Green chilli
- Handful of fresh coriander
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Ingredients for cooking chicken
- 3 tbsp Oil
- 1 inch Cinnamon stick
- 3 Green cardamom
- 3 Clove
- Few curry leaves
- 1 tsp Butter
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a wide bowl, add turmeric powder, ginger garlic paste, red chilli powder, pepper powder, garam masala powder, coriander powder, salt, onions, green chili, lemon juice and fresh coriander.
- Add oil to the chicken and masala mixture. This helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy while cooking.
- Marinate chicken for 10 minutes, this is optional.
- In a pan heat oil and add whole spice like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves.
- Once the whole spices crackle add the marinated chicken.
- Sauté the chicken on medium high flame for 2 minutes.
- After 2 minutes cover the pan and cook for 4 minutes on low flame.
- After 4 minutes open the lid and turn the chicken pieces.
- Cover the lid and cook the other side for 4 minutes on low flame.
- Now add curry leaves and butter, mix well.
- Cook for further 2 minutes or until the butter melts.
- Turn off the flame and garnish with fresh coriander.
- This chicken masala is best paired with roti, paratha, rice and dal or sambhar.
Video
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use chicken breast or bone-in chicken instead of boneless thighs?
Yes, you can! Boneless chicken thighs stay juicier and softer, but chicken breast or small Curry Cut bone-in pieces also work well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly so the chicken cooks through without drying out.
How spicy is this chicken masala fry?
This is a moderately spicy recipe — just enough heat to balance the masala flavors. You can reduce red chilli powder, pepper powder or green chillies if you prefer it milder.
Do I need to grind any masala for this recipe?
No! That’s the best part — this quick fry needs no grinding. All the masalas are pantry staples, making it perfect for busy days.
Can I make this chicken masala fry in advance or for meal prep?
Absolutely! Mix all the dry spices with chicken and store in an airtight jar or ziplock bag. When ready to cook, just add the raw onions, and herbs — you’ll have a fresh, flavorful meal in no time.
What can I serve with this 15-minute chicken masala fry?
It pairs beautifully with plain rice, roti, paratha, or even as a quick starter with lemon and sliced onions.
How can I make it even more flavorful?
Add a spoonful of butter or ghee and few curry leaves at the end — it gives a rich aroma and a delicious South Indian touch.
🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Masala Fry
- Use Thigh Meat for Juiciness: Boneless chicken thighs stay moist and tender, unlike breast pieces that can turn dry if overcooked.
- Quick Brine for Extra Softness: If you have time, soak the chicken in slightly salted water with a little vinegar or lemon juice for 15 minutes — this keeps it juicy.
- No Water Needed: Avoid adding water — the chicken releases its own juices, giving you a dry yet moist masala fry.
- Butter + Curry Leaves Magic: Finish with a spoon of butter and curry leaves for a glossy texture and irresistible aroma.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Mix all dry spices and Freeze the marinated chicken for up to 25 days. Just add onions and herbs before cooking.
- Quick Fix for Busy Days: This masala fry pairs perfectly with rice or chapati when you need a flavorful meal in minutes.
💛 From Dining With Ayesha:
If you loved this recipe, don’t stop here!
Try these delicious dishes next — perfect for your next family meal:🍗 More Chicken Favourites
- Chicken Akbari- Mughlai Chicken Curry
- Hyderabadi Wedding Style Green Chicken
- Rich And Creamy Mughlai Chicken
🥘 Mutton Lovers Also Enjoy
🔥 Explore More:
Check out all my Chicken Recipes and Mutton Recipes for restaurant-style flavours made simple at home.🫶🏻 With love, Dining With Ayesha
💬 What Do You Think About This Recipe?
Have you tried this Chicken Masala Fry recipe at home? What did you pair it with? Share your thoughts in the comments below — your feedback means the world to me! ❤️
📸 Also, if you make this Chicken Masala fry recipe, don’t forget to share a photo and tag me on Instagram
👉 @diningwithayesha using the hashtag #diningwithayesha — I’d love to see your creations!Love this Easy Chicken Masala? Don’t miss our Butter Garlic Chicken recipe – juicy, flavorful, and perfect for Party and Weekends!