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Authentic Pakistani Chicken Karahi – Spicy, Tangy & Bursting with Flavor


  • Author: Mouad Boulkhiout
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Description

Pakistani Chicken Karahi is a vibrant and spicy tomato-based curry cooked with garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices. Made traditionally with bone-in chicken, it’s simmered until tender and finished with fresh green chillies and coriander. Serve hot with naan or chapati for an unforgettable meal.


Ingredients

  • 1kg chicken, bone-in pieces

  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped

  • 4 large tomatoes, finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp garlic paste

  • 1 tbsp ginger paste

  • 3 green chillies, sliced

  • Salt, to taste

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • 2 tsp ground coriander

  • 1 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp turmeric powder

  • 100ml sunflower oil

For garnish:

  • Handful of fresh coriander, chopped

  • Julienned ginger, for garnish


Instructions

  • Heat oil in a karahi or deep frying pan. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.

  • Add garlic and ginger pastes. Fry for 1–2 minutes.

  • Stir in chopped tomatoes. Cook until soft and oil begins to separate.

  • Mix in spices: salt, cumin, coriander, red chilli, and turmeric. Cook 2–3 minutes.

  • Add chicken, stir to coat well, and cook uncovered for 10 minutes on medium-high heat.

  • Add a splash of water, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is tender.

  • Uncover and cook on high to reduce curry until thick and glossy.

  • Stir in green chillies and chopped coriander. Garnish with julienned ginger.

  • Serve hot with naan, chapati, or rice.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken in yoghurt and spices for extra flavour if you have time.

  • Use ripe, fresh tomatoes—tinned ones won’t give the same depth.

  • Add a squeeze of lemon just before serving for a zesty finish.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—flavour deepens over time.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes