Chicken Karahi – A Flavor-Packed, Easy Pakistani Recipe You’ll Love

This recipe blog will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare simple and Easy Chicken Karahi at home. From choosing the right chicken cuts to mastering the perfect spice balance, you’ll find all the practical tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this restaurant-style Chicken Karahi.

Simple and easy chicken karahi served in a cooking pot with rich tomato gravy and fresh coriander garnish
A delicious homemade chicken karahi cooked with tomatoes, spices, and fresh herbs.

Chicken Karahi is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes from Pakistani and North Indian cuisine. Known for its bold flavors, rich tomato-based gravy, and irresistible aroma of freshly ground spices, this dish is traditionally cooked in a wok-like pan called a karahi. What makes Chicken Karahi truly special is its simplicity—no onions, no heavy gravies—just fresh tomatoes, green chilies, ginger, garlic, and perfectly cooked chicken.

Ingredients for Chicken Karahi

Main ingredients for chicken karahi including onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, green chilies, turmeric, and raw chicken placed on a cutting board
Fresh ingredients required to make an authentic and flavorful chicken karahi.

Here’s what you’ll need to make authentic Chicken Karahi (serves 3–4):

Main Ingredients

Chicken (bone-in preferred)

Onion (medium)

Cooking oil

Salt

Tomatoes (finely chopped or crushed)

Ginger, garlic (paste/crushed)

Green chillies

1 Kg

3

½ cup

as per taste

3-4

1 tbsp

2-3

Spices

red chili powder

coriander powder

turmeric powder/cruched root

freshly crushed black pepper

cumin seeds, lightly crushed

crushed red chili flakes (optional)

1½ tsp

1 tsp

½ tsp

1 tsp

1 tsp

1 tsp

Finishing Touch

garam masala

Fresh ginger (julienned)

Fresh coriander leaves

butter or ghee (optional, for richness)

1 tsp

2 tsp

Few

1–2 tbsp

How to Make Chicken Karahi

Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time:

Collage showing step-by-step chicken karahi cooking process including marination, frying, adding spices, tomatoes, and cooking on low flame.
Step-by-step visual guide to making delicious chicken karahi.

1- Marinate the Chicken

To begin this authentic chicken karahi recipe, marinate the chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, crushed fresh turmeric root, and finely chopped green chilies. Mix well so the flavors coat the chicken evenly. Cover and let it rest for at least 1 hour for a deeper, richer taste.

2-  Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a wide karahi or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook on high heat until the pieces change color and are lightly browned. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

3-  Add Onion, Tomatoes & Spices

Add the chopped onions and tomatoes, followed by salt, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook on low heat until the tomatoes soften. Increase the heat slightly and fry the mixture until the oil begins to separate.

4-  Frying (Dry Cooking)

This is the key step. Cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring continuously, until thick, glossy, and aromatic. This enhances depth of flavor.

5-  Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh coriander and ginger juliennes. Serve hot.

Variations and Substitutions

  • White Karahi: Replace tomatoes with yogurt and cream for a milder, creamy version.
  • Boneless Chicken Karahi: Use boneless thighs for quicker cooking, though flavor will be slightly lighter.
  • Low-Oil Version: Reduce oil by half and use a non-stick pan.
  • Spicy Karahi: Add extra green chilies or crushed chili flakes.
  • Smoky Flavor: Add a quick dhungar (coal smoke) for restaurant-style aroma.

Chicken Cuts Best for Chicken Karahi

The best chicken cuts for Chicken Karahi are:

  • Bone-in thighs & drumsticks: Juiciest and most flavorful
  • Whole cut-up chicken: Traditional and authentic
  • Boneless thighs: Good for quick meals, still moist

Avoid chicken breast alone, as it can dry out during high-heat cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Karahi

Plate of easy chicken karahi served with roti, cucumber salad, onions, beetroot slices, and lemon
A delicious serving of chicken karahi paired with roti, fresh salad slices, and lemon for a perfect traditional meal.

Chicken Karahi is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Pair it with:

  • Naan or Tandoori Roti (classic choice)
  • Chapati for a lighter meal
  • Plain basmati rice
  • Kachumber salad (onion, tomato, cucumber)
  • Raita or yogurt dip
  • Lemon wedges for brightness

How to Store Leftover Chicken Karahi

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month (avoid freezing with garnishes).
  • Reheating: Reheat on stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or oil. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

Special Hacks for Perfect Chicken Karahi

  • Use fresh tomatoes, not canned, for authentic flavor.
  • Cook on high heat initially to seal the chicken.
  • Crush spices fresh for deeper aroma.
  • Add butter or ghee only at the end.
  • Serve immediately—Chicken Karahi tastes best fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Chicken Karahi very spicy?

Traditionally, yes—but you can easily reduce spice by cutting down chilies.

Can I make Chicken Karahi without oil?

Oil is essential for authentic flavor, but you can reduce the quantity significantly.

Why is my Chicken Karahi watery?

This happens if tomatoes aren’t cooked properly. Always cook until oil separates.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes are recommended, but canned can work in a pinch.

Is Chicken Karahi healthy?

Yes, when made with less oil and fresh ingredients, it’s high in protein and low in carbs.

What makes Chicken Karahi different from chicken curry?

Chicken Karahi has no onions, uses fewer spices, and is cooked on high heat for a bold, concentrated flavor.

Chicken Karahi truly captures the heart of Pakistani cuisine—simple ingredients, bold spices, and irresistible flavor all coming together in one pan. Whether you cook it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or a weekend comfort meal, this dish never disappoints and is always a crowd-pleaser. If you enjoyed this recipe and want to try another delicious and easy rice dish, don’t miss my Chicken Pulao Recipe for another flavorful meal idea!