Matka Chicken Recipe: Smoky, Slow-Cooked Chicken Curry With Authentic Desi Flavor

Try this authentic Matka Chicken recipe cooked slowly in a clay pot for rich, smoky flavors. A traditional Indian chicken curry is perfect for special meals and food lovers.

 

By Amit Kaul
Location: India
Published on: January 23, 2026

 

Introduction

Matka Chicken is a traditional Indian slow-cooked chicken curry prepared in a clay pot, known as a matka. This age-old cooking method enhances flavor, retains moisture, and adds a distinct earthy aroma that cannot be replicated in modern cookware. Popular across rural kitchens and dhaba-style eateries, Matka Chicken is celebrated for its deeply infused spices and smoky richness. As food enthusiasts increasingly search for authentic, rustic Indian recipes, Matka Chicken has emerged as a trending dish.

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Authentic Matka Chicken Recipe

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

60 minutes

Servings

4 people

Ingredients

1. 1 kg chicken (bone-in, medium pieces)
2. 3 tablespoons mustard oil
3. 2 large onions (finely sliced)
4. 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
5. 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
6. 1 cup thick curd (whisked)
7. 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
8. 1½ teaspoons red chili powder
9. 1 teaspoon coriander powder
10. ½ teaspoon cumin powder
11. 1 teaspoon garam masala
12. 2 green chilies (slit)
13. 2 bay leaves
14. Salt to taste
15. Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

1. In a pan, heat the mustard oil until it begins to smoke slightly. Lower the heat.
2. Add bay leaves and sliced onions. Cook until onions turn deep golden brown.
3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell is no longer present.
4. Add the tomato puree, salt, turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook until the oil separates.
5. Lower the flame and gradually mix in the whisked curd, stirring continuously.
6. Cook the chicken pieces till the masala has thoroughly covered them.
7. Transfer the mixture into a clay pot (matka). Add green chilies and cover.
8. Seal the lid with dough (optional for authentic dum cooking).
9. Cook on very low heat for 45–50 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and aromatic.
10. Garnish with coriander, sprinkle with garam masala, and serve hot.

Why Matka Chicken Is Special

The magic of Matka Chicken lies in its cooking technique. Clay pots distribute heat evenly and retain moisture, resulting in tender chicken infused with layered flavors. The slow-cooking process allows spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a rich, aromatic, and naturally smoky curry.

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Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with tandoori roti or naan
2. Pair with steamed basmati rice
3. Accompany with sliced onions and lemon wedges

Pro Tips for Perfect Matka Chicken

1. Always soak the clay pot in water before use
2. Cook on low heat for authentic flavor
3. Mustard oil enhances the rustic taste

Conclusion

Matka Chicken is more than just a curry—it is a celebration of traditional Indian cooking. Its slow-cooked depth, smoky aroma, and cultural authenticity make it a standout dish for any food lover.

 

 

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.