Malvani Chicken Recipe: Authentic Coastal Maharashtrian Curry Packed With Bold Spices

Discover the authentic Malvani Chicken recipe made with freshly ground coconut masala. A spicy, aromatic Maharashtrian curry perfect for rice or bhakri.

By Amit Kaul
Location: India
Published on: January 15, 2026

Introduction: Malvani Chicken recipe

Malvani Chicken is a fiery and flavorful coastal Maharashtrian delicacy originating from the Konkan belt of Maharashtra. Known for its deep red color, intense aroma, and robust spice profile, this dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of the Malvan region. What makes Malvani Chicken stand apart from other Indian chicken curries is the use of freshly roasted coconut and whole spices, ground into a traditional Malvani masala.

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Authentic Malvani Chicken Recipe

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

40 minutes

Servings

4 people

Ingredients

For Chicken

1. 750 grams chicken (curry cut)
2. 2 tablespoons oil
3. Salt to taste

For Malvani Masala (Freshly Ground)

1. 1 cup grated coconut (dry or fresh)
2. 8–10 dried red chilies (Byadgi or Kashmiri)
3. 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
4. 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
5. 6–8 garlic cloves
6. 1-inch ginger
7. 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
8. 2 cloves
9. 1-inch cinnamon stick
10. 1 teaspoon fennel seeds

For Gravy

1. 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
2. 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
3. 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
4. Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Method: Malvani Chicken recipe

1. Dry roast the grated coconut over a low flame until it turns golden brown. Add dried red chilies and whole spices; roast until aromatic.
2. Allow the mixture to cool, then grind it into a smooth Malvani masala paste using water.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden.
4. Add turmeric powder and the prepared Malvani masala. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
5. Add chicken pieces and salt. Mix well and cook for 5–7 minutes.
6. Add water as required to form the gravy. Cover and cook until chicken is tender.
7. Stir in tamarind pulp for a mild tang.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and simmer for 2 minutes before serving.

Why Malvani Chicken Is So Popular

Malvani Chicken has gained massive popularity due to its authentic regional roots and high spice intensity, making it a favorite among lovers of bold Indian flavors. The coconut-based gravy paired with aromatic spices creates a layered taste profile that works exceptionally well with steamed rice, bhakri, or neer dosa.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve hot with steamed rice or Malvani bhakri
2. Pair with solkadhi for an authentic coastal meal
3. Add sliced onions and lemon wedges on the side

Pro Tips for Restaurant-Style Taste

1. Always use freshly roasted coconut for authentic flavor
2. Adjust red chilies based on spice tolerance
3. Cooking on a low flame enhances the depth of flavors

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Conclusion: Malvani Chicken recipe

If you are searching for an authentic Maharashtrian chicken curry, Malvani Chicken is a must-add recipe to your food. Its bold flavors, traditional preparation, and rising popularity make it an excellent choice for attracting food enthusiasts and regional cuisine lovers.

About the Author

Amit Kaul is a food content writer and digital publisher based in India. He specializes in creating original, experience-driven recipes and home-cooking guides. All recipes published on this website are personally researched, tested, and written by him, following Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) guidelines.