32 Indian Chicken Recipes from Traditional to Indian-Inspired Creations

Updated on Feb. 17, 2025

Shake up your weeknight rotation with Indian chicken recipes. Some stick to traditional cooking methods and flavors, while others fuse cooking styles from other places around the world.

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What I love most about Indian chicken recipes is how they deliver on both comfort and layered flavor. Whether it’s classics like chicken tikka masala and tandoori-style chicken or something more inventive like ginger-curry chicken tacos, there’s a recipe here for everyone. If Indian food feels intimidating, check out our beginner’s guide to Indian cooking. But no need to stress—most of these vibrant chicken recipes are easy or moderate in difficulty, featuring straightforward Indian cooking techniques and easy-to-find ingredients.

You’ll notice many of these recipes use curry powder, which isn’t traditionally used in Indian cooking but is more of an interpretation of commonly used Indian spices and herbs. While it’s a convenient shortcut (and who doesn’t love one?!), I highly recommend visiting a global grocery store to explore more authentic flavors. Your taste buds will be revved up by spice blends like garam masala and staple ingredients like coriander or turmeric. You might already have turmeric in your pantry if you like making haldi doodh (aka golden milk).

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Chicken Korma

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 45 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Chicken korma is a spiced Indian dish. It's not spicy-hot, but it's very flavorful from ingredients like cloves and ginger. Serve it with rice to soak in all the sauce. —Jemima Madhavan, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 313 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 665mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.

Chicken korma is one of those recipes that takes me back to weeknight dinners with my family. The warmth of minced gingerroot and spices like cloves and cardamom is as comforting as how we’d gather around our humble kitchen table and savor this meal. It’s a delightfully approachable recipe that makes for an easy introduction to Indian chicken recipes.

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Chicken Tikka Masala

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 4 hours 40 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This Indian-style chicken tikka masala recipe has flavors that keep me coming back for more. It's a simple dish spiced with garam masala, cumin and gingerroot that’s simply amazing. —Jaclyn Bell, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups chicken mixture (calculated without rice): 381 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 118mg cholesterol, 864mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein.

Chicken tikka masala has become synonymous with Indian food in America. While the roots of this recipe aren’t entirely traditional, the juicy bites of chicken swimming in a velvety spice-kissed tomato sauce have captured the hearts and bellies of many—and it’s easy to see why.

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Slow-Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 5 hours 20 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My husband and I love this yummy dish! It’s a breeze to prepare in the slow cooker, and it tastes just like a meal you’d have at your favorite Indian or Thai restaurant. —Andi Kauffman, Beavercreek, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 371 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 265mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.

Turn to this easy recipe when you just want to toss everything into a pot and let the magic unfold. Coconut milk (different from coconut cream) wraps tender chunks of chicken with hints of curry powder and garlic, while potatoes and rice act as buoys of flavor. It’s effortless, yet the final dish will make you wonder if you’re sitting at your favorite restaurant.

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Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken

Skill Level Easy
Total Time 3 hours 10 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I spent several years in Malaysia eating a variety of Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian food. This was one of my favorite dishes! There are many versions of butter chicken, but this is similar to the Middle Eastern version I had. —Shannon Copley, Upper Arlington, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 242 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 407mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 fat.

Butter chicken, or chicken makhani, is already irresistibly delicious, but making it in a slow cooker takes it to another level. A dreamy tomato and coconut milk sauce drapes tender bites of chicken. The slow-cooking deepens the flavors, making this one of those recipes that taste better the next day.

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Curry Chicken Salad

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 20 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This chicken salad sandwich recipe is perfect to serve when you want to show off a little. It features an interesting blend of chicken, nuts, cranberries, curry and other ingredients. I mix it up the night before so the flavors meld. —Carole Martin, Coffeeville, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 625 calories, 41g fat (10g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 614mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein.

Adaptable recipes are my favorite. Whether you stick with the apple and cranberry combo or swap in mango with tomato chutney, this easy recipe lets you play with flavors and make the most of what you have on hand.

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Chicken Tikka

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 40 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Chicken tikka skewers make easy and delectable party food. Though this recipe is mild, you can dial up the spice by increasing the amount of chili powder. —Aleni Salcedo, East Elmhurst, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1 skewer: 163 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.

Warm, smoky spiced yogurt tenderizes bite-sized chicken breast perfectly in this recipe. The first bite of juicy, char-edged chicken will make you feel as if you’re standing by a street food cart in India. The marinade is versatile, working just as well with chicken thighs, lamb or even tofu. Prepare the tikka ahead of time and in 30 minutes or less, you’ll have sizzling skewers ready to enjoy with rice, naan or a side of grilled veggies.

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Pressure-Cooker Tandoori Chicken Panini

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 35 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: The tandoori-style spices in this chicken give it a bold flavor that’s so hard to resist. It tastes incredible tucked between pieces of naan and then grilled for Indian-inspired panini sandwiches. —Yasmin Arif, Manassas, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1/2 sandwich: 351 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 853mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein.

Sink your teeth into warm naan wrapped around tandoori chicken so juicy and tender it practically melts in your mouth. The pressure cooker works its magic, making the chicken fall apart and soak up every drop of flavor. A smear of chutney—whether it’s sweet mango, zesty mint or bright tamarind—packs this crispy panini with punchy flavor.

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Curry Chicken and Rice

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I've been loving the subtle spice from curry lately, so I incorporated it into this saucy chicken and rice dish. The one-pan meal has become a go-to dinnertime favorite. —Mary Lou Timpson, Colorado City, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 300 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 658mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.

This inventive recipe is a burst of bright playful flavors all in one pot. Simple spices give subtle nods to India, while the curry-soaked rice adds a cozy texture. Toss in veggies like bell pepper or okra, or swap in grains like sorghum or millet to make this recipe your own masterpiece.

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Instant Pot Chicken Curry

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 15 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I came up with this pressure-cooker chicken curry after searching for a flavorful chicken dinner. Making it in a pressure cooker means it's easy to whip up on weeknights. Plus, leftovers taste great for lunch. —Jess Apfe, Berkeley, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 278 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 356mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.

Keep this recipe in your back pocket for those nights when time is ticking and hunger is calling. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a quick sauce of canned tomatoes, sauteed onions, garlic, ginger, and a fragrant blend of turmeric and cumin. Pair the chicken curry with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice and, just like that, dinner is served!

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Chicken Tikka Meatballs with Ginger Rice

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 1 hour 25 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Tikka is an Indian dish made of small pieces of meat or veggies marinated in spices. Our version features chicken meatballs served over flavored rice. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 441 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 95mg cholesterol, 731mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein.

Chicken tikka meatballs and zingy ginger rice are the kind of duo that just clicks. The tender, spiced meatballs complement the rice that hums with gentle heat. A silky tomato-based sauce and a luscious drizzle of cumin-infused sour cream bring everything together for a bright and balanced plate.

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Mughlai Chicken

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 30 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I enjoy cooking for my family and try to incorporate healthy new foods into our menus. This authentic Indian dish is a favorite. —Aruna Kancharla, Bentonville, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 367 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 93mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.

Indian chicken recipes like Mughlai chicken are simply unforgettable. The sauce—a fragrant mix of garlic, ginger and green chiles—is tamed by the smooth sweetness from cashews and blanched almonds. It may be mellow, but this dish has a subtle way of turning an everyday dinner into something truly magical in less than 30 minutes.

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Tandoori Chicken

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 35 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: A hand-mixed spice rub makes ordinary chicken worthy of a special occasion. Plus, it takes awhile to marinate, so you can do other things while the spicy yogurt sauce works its magic. —Dena Leigh, Oldsmar, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 310 calories, 20g fat (7g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 548mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein.

This is an at-home take on tandoori chicken, which is known for its bright red hue and roasting style in a tandoor oven. Yogurt marinade spiked with chipotle, ginger and earthy Indian spices like fennel, fenugreek and cinnamon make the chicken ultra tender. As the chicken roasts, the flavors awaken. A honey-lime drizzle adds a tangy contrast to every bite.

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Chicken Samosas

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 40 min
Servings 16 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This chicken samosa recipe is best served with yogurt dipping sauce or chutney (like coriander and mint, tamarind or sweet mango). The dough and filling can be made ahead for quick assembly before guests arrive. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 samosa: 325 calories, 21g fat (2g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.

Why limit samosas to just a snack when they’re this easy to make? These golden pouches of spiced chicken and vegetables can shine at brunch, in lunchboxes or even as a movie-night swap for popcorn. Whether fried to crispy perfection or baked for a healthier option, these samosas prove that something this delicious deserves to be enjoyed at any time, in any way.

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Pressure-Cooker Curried Chicken Meatball Wraps

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 45 min
Servings 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: My strategy to get picky kids to eat healthy: Let everyone assemble their dinner at the table. We love these easy meatball wraps topped with crunchy veggies and peanuts, sweet raisins and a creamy dollop of yogurt. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 82 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 88mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat, 1/2 starch.

I love a good wrap that helps me sneak in more veggies. This recipe nestles warmly spiced chicken meatballs in crisp Bibb lettuce with a topping of crunchy vegetables, sweet raisins and a sprinkle of peanuts. It is fun to assemble and is a great option when you have pickier eaters at the table.

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Chicken with Curry Roasted Squash

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 40 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This chicken butternut squash curry is very flavorful and full of protein, fiber and phytonutrients. The addition of the apricots adds a mild sweetness to the dish. —Sharon Collison, Newark, Delaware
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 463 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 420mg sodium, 69g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 14g fiber), 32g protein.

Spiced butternut squash and red onions bring brightly colored sweetness to tender rotisserie chicken and chickpeas, all simmered in a wholesome broth. Couscous catches every drop of flavor. Use regular couscous or opt for pearl couscous, which is a larger type of the pasta.

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Chicken Curry Soup

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 1 hour 10 min
Servings 8 servings (2-1/2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator: My German mother would occasionally cook dishes that were not traditional German recipes. One of my favorites was her curry chicken soup. I've added my own touches to it, such as the chickpeas, coconut milk and fresh cilantro. —Deanna Hindenach, Paw Paw, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 270 calories, 16g fat (10g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 555mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 16g protein.

This recipe gives you a reason to crack open that can of coconut milk in the pantry. The coconut milk weaves the spices together into something silky and satisfying while root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips melt into pockets of flavor. Add a scoop of rice or orzo to make it a heartier meal. Adapt this recipe with anything you have in the fridge.

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Sheet-Pan Chicken Curry Dinner

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This sheet-pan chicken curry is a quick way to get a meal on the table without fuss. Everyone loves it, and it's healthy to boot! Serve it with a side of jasmine rice. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 409 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 686mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 6g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 3 starch, 1 fat.

Who doesn’t love a one-and-done dinner? This sheet-pan recipe pairs juicy chicken thighs with sweet potatoes and cauliflower roasted together in a blend of curry powder, smoked paprika and a dash of lemon-pepper seasoning. The splash of chicken broth at the end cues that classic chicken curry feeling, but in sheet-pan form.

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Mango Chicken Curry

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: You can find coconut milk in the Asian section of your grocery store. Don't confuse coconut milk with cream of coconut, which is a thick sweet liquid often used in making drinks. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/4 cups: 328 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 405mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein.

I’m a sucker for a sweet and savory recipe, and this mango chicken curry is truly a love letter to that combination. The tropical sweetness of ripe mango melts into the sauce, creating a dreamy balance of flavors that hugs tender bites of chicken. Spices like curry powder and cayenne add light kicks, while ginger and garlic bring aromatic goodness. Ladle the mango chicken curry over rice, pair it with buttery roti or enjoy it on its own.

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Mighty Nice Curried Chicken with Rice

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This was one of the first chicken recipes I prepared for my husband more than 50 years ago. His exclamation? “Mighty nice!” That’s how it got its name. Sometimes I add extra broth to make more of the yummy sauce. —Kay Stansberry, Athens, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 7 ounces cooked chicken with 1-1/2 cups sauce: 657 calories, 39g fat (15g saturated fat), 187mg cholesterol, 1210mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 52g protein.

This 50-year-old recipe shows how creativity in the kitchen has always been timeless. Tart apples, golden raisins and curry powder come together in a sauce brimming with fruity brightness and warm spice. A whisper of orange zest and a sprinkle of toasted almonds tie it all together. It’s no wonder the recipe developer’s husband called it “mighty nice!”

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Ginger-Curry Chicken Tacos

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 35 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I love tacos (who doesn't?), but I wanted to put my own unique twist on them by incorporating some Indian flavors. These ginger-curry versions hit the spot! —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California
Nutrition Facts: 2 tacos: 335 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 768mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch.

These brightly flavored ginger-curry chicken tacos will light up your taste buds. The spiced chicken is tucked into soft naan and then crowned with a mango-cucumber slaw. It’s crunchy, sweet and savory all at once. Keep this recipe around when you want to change up your next taco night!

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Sheet-Pan Tandoori Chicken

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 45 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This tandoori chicken recipe is easy for weeknights since it bakes in one pan, but it is also special enough for guests. The best part? There isn’t much to clean up when dinner is over! —Anwar Khan, Iriving, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 2 chicken thighs with 1 cup sweet potatoes and 4 tomatoes: 589 calories, 27g fat (9g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 6g fiber), 52g protein.

Easy cleanup and prep make this sheet-pan tandoori chicken a dream for any night. The yogurt-marinated chicken roasts to juicy perfection, while sweet potatoes caramelize into golden bites. With bursts of roasted tomatoes and zesty lemon slices, it’s like serving up sunshine straight from the oven.

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Pressure-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 40 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: The flavors of this Indian-style entree keep me coming back for more. The dish isn’t fancy, and it’s simply spiced—but it’s simply amazing. —Jaclyn Bell, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup chicken mixture: 279 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 856mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.

Chicken tikka masala tells a different story in every kitchen because there’s no one way to make it. This version leans on the pressure cooker for added simplicity without compromising much on the decadent tomato sauce.

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Tandoori Masala Chicken Sandwiches

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 40 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe combines spices from my Indian roots with a modern twist. If you want to add some extra heat to your sandwiches, add half a serrano pepper to the slaw. —Mary Lou Timpson, Centennial Park, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 415 calories, 19g fat (6g saturated fat), 114mg cholesterol, 559mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein.

This is not your average chicken sandwich. These beauties start with juicy, spice-rubbed chicken thighs tucked into buttery brioche buns. They’re topped with a crisp daikon slaw and a cooling mint-lime yogurt sauce. If you have the time, allow your chicken to marinate overnight for the best flavor.

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Mango Chutney Chicken Curry

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My father dreamed up this curry and chutney combination. Now my family cooks it on road trips—in rain and sun, in the mountains, even on the beach. Adjust the curry for taste and heat. —Dina Moreno, Seattle, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1/2 cup: 320 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 558mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.

Simmer the chicken in the warm curry spices and garlic, then add the chutney and cream at the same time. The chutney sweetens the dish while the half-and-half gives it a velvety smooth finish. If you make your own chutney, be sure not to use overly ripe mangoes otherwise it could end up too sweet.

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Curried Chicken and Grits Casserole

Skill Level Intermediate
Total Time 1 hour 15 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Southern-style cheesy grits meet curry and loads of vegetables to make a satisfying casserole that blankets the house with an inviting aroma. —Lori Shamszadeh, Fairhope, Alabama
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 cups: 629 calories, 53g fat (14g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 1094mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.

Who knew southern flavors could pair so well with the bold spices of curry powder? Cheesy creamy grits set the stage, while cream of chicken and mushroom soups with a bit of mayo hold this dish together and make every bite sing. We love good comfort food mashups like this.

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Brown Rice Mulligatawny

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 1 hour 20 min
Servings 5 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My friends tell me this is one of the best soups they’ve ever had. One even said it’s “perfect.” No one guesses that it’s healthy! —Sarah Ott, Blanchardville, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup with 1 tablespoon sour cream: 229 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 689mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.

Mulligatawny soup is a unique fusion of British and Indian cultures. It was a soup inspired by rasam, another tangy and spiced South Indian lentil soup. I still remember the first time I got mulligatawny at an Indian restaurant. A bowl full of golden-toned warmth arrived and, on the first slurp, I was in love. This version carries that feeling with hearty brown rice, tender chicken, fresh mushrooms and tart apple.

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Tandoori Chicken Thighs

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I spent time in India and love reminders of the vibrant culture, so this tandoori chicken makes me happy. Served with warmed naan bread and a cool tomato and cucumber salad, it's a whole meal. —Claire Elston, Spokane, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 chicken thigh: 193 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 333mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.

This simplified version of tandoori chicken is a quick, convenient option. Marinated in yogurt, ginger and cayenne, which gives a boost of heat, the chicken stays juicy and full of flavor. It’s proof that sometimes shortcuts can lead to great things.

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Tandoori-Style Chicken with Cucumber Melon Relish

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 35 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: We all need a quick meal that's deliciously healthy. I marinate the chicken before I leave for work, and when I get home, I grill the chicken and make the relish. My husband loves the spicy flavor. To amp up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (calculated without almonds): 247 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 332mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 38g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 starch.

This take on tandoori-style chicken feels like a summer picnic, no matter the season. The real magic is in the melon relish that adorns the chicken. It combines sweet juicy cantaloupe with crisp cucumber, cool mint and a shower of almonds.

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Tandoori Spiced Chicken Pita Pizza with Greek Yogurt and Cilantro

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My family and I are big picnickers, and I'm always looking for new dishes to try in the great outdoors. The amazing flavors at our favorite Indian restaurant inspired these mini pizzas. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 pizza: 380 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 598mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch.

It’s part pizza, part flavor adventure and entirely something you’ll want to make regularly. Tandoori-flavored chicken brings heat that’s balanced by a cool drizzle of cilantro yogurt. The chicken rests on a grilled pita topped with crumbled feta, and bursting tomatoes making every mouthful so satisfying.

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Curried Chicken Corn Chowder

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 45 min
Servings 8 servings (2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe is close to the one my mom used to make for us kids when the weather turned cold. Hers called for heavy cream, but I came up with a slimmer version that I think is pretty true to the original! —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 229 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 582mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.

Comfort food comes together quickly with this fresh take on corn chowder. And besides, recipes that start with a bag of frozen corn are always welcome when we need to clear out the freezer.

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Breaded Curry Chicken Drummies

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 1 hour 5 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: These drumsticks are crispy with just the right amount of zing to get your mouth watering for more. They are super easy to make and are baked rather than fried so they save on fat but not on flavor. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or assorted chicken parts can be used instead of all drumsticks. —Lynn Kaufman, Mount Morris, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 2 drumsticks: 380 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 125mg cholesterol, 535mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein.

Golden and crispy, these drumsticks are dredged in a symphony of aromatic flavors. They sing with just the right zing! While they are irresistible on their own, they are even better when paired with a refreshing raita dip.

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Curried Chicken Skillet

Skill Level Beginner
Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This protein-packed skillet dish is loaded with bright flavor. A little curry and fresh ginger make the veggies, chicken and quinoa pop. —Ruth Hartunian-Alumbaugh, Willimantic, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts: 2 cups: 367 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 450mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 6g fiber), 29g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.

One pan with big flavor—that’s what I’m talking about! I can already imagine the aromas filling my kitchen with this curried chicken skillet. Sweet potatoes and onions cooking down, the curry powder and ginger releasing cozy warmth, and nutty quinoa soaking up everything. Shredded chicken and peas finish the dish perfectly, making it a quick meal that will keep you full.

Indian Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is the best chicken dish in India?

The best chicken dish in India depends on personal taste and regional preferences. Many would point to butter chicken, a northern India classic, for its iconic, richly spiced tomato sauce. Others might argue that perfectly layered chicken biryani from Hyderabad or a spicy Chettinad chicken curry from the southern part of India are the real stars. The best dish is really the one that takes over your taste buds and makes a mark on your food memories.

What is the difference between chicken tikka masala, butter chicken and chicken curry?

The difference between chicken tikka masala, butter chicken and chicken curry comes down to preparation, regional preferences and the balance of spices. Chicken tikka masala typically features marinated grilled chicken chunks in a richly spiced, slightly smoky tomato-based sauce. Butter chicken is nuttier and more decadent but has a milder, slightly sweeter tomato base. Chicken curry is a broader category and varies widely in how it’s made. Recipes often involve a cut of chicken simmered in a base of onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic and a mix of freshly milled spices. Some versions include additions like coconut milk, potatoes or curry leaves.

How do you make Indian chicken curry?

If you want to know how to make Indian chicken curry, start by stocking your pantry with quality spices and fresh ingredients. From there, you can test which ratio of spices and seasonings is best for your tastes. In authentic Indian chicken curry dishes, you’re probably not going to see canned tomato puree or stocks/broths. Instead, you’ll saute fresh produce low and slow with spices and yogurt until the mixture thickens, then you’ll add the chicken and water and cook the chicken until done.