Chicken Atishi – Smoky, Spicy North Indian Chicken Curry

Chicken Atishi is a bold and richly spiced North Indian-style chicken curry layered with smoky depth, aromatic masala, and a creamy tomato-onion base. “Atishi” translates to “fiery” or “intense,” and this dish lives up to its name with deep flavors and warm heat. Often cooked with charred aromatics and yogurt for richness, it pairs beautifully with naan, paratha, or steamed basmati rice.

Ingredients

• 1 kg (2.2 lb) bone-in or boneless chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks work best)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 cup yogurt (whisked, full-fat preferred)
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped or puréed
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for atishi/smoky flavor)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: ½ teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
• Optional: Charcoal for dhungar (smoke) method
  

  Instructions