How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead, and cook the dish on the following day.

What can I use instead of saffron?

If saffron is unavailable, turmeric can be used for color, though the flavor will differ.

The dish has a mild spice level, adjust the quantity of green chilies to increase the heat.

What is an alternative protein to chicken?

You may substitute chicken with lamb or paneer for a vegetarian option.

Aromatic Bangladeshi Chicken Rezala with Yogurt and Saffron

Name: Aromatic Bangladeshi Chicken Rezala with Yogurt and Saffron
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Chicken; Plain Yogurt; Ginger Paste; Garlic Paste; White Pepper Powder; Salt; Garam Masala; Ghee; Cinnamon Sticks; Cardamom Pods; Cloves; Onions; Sugar; Water; Saffron Threads (soaked); Roasted Cashews; Fresh Coriander Leaves; Green Chili

A Fragrant Fusion of Spices and Tender Chicken

This sumptuous Bangladeshi dish features tender chicken simmered in a luxurious sauce infused with yogurt and saffron, offering a delightful blend of aromatic spices and creamy richness.

1 hr 45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Marinade

Chicken

1 kg, skinless and cut into pieces

Plain Yogurt

1 cup

Ginger Paste

1 tbsp

Garlic Paste

1 tbsp

White Pepper Powder

1 tsp

Salt

1 tsp

Garam Masala

1 tsp

For the Sauce

Ghee

2 tbsp

Cinnamon Sticks

2 sticks

Cardamom Pods

4 pods

Cloves

Onions

2, thinly sliced

Sugar

1 tbsp

Water

1/2 cup

Saffron Threads (soaked)

A pinch soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk

For the Garnishing

Roasted Cashews

2 tbsp

Fresh Coriander Leaves

2 tbsp, chopped

Green Chili

1, sliced

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Combine Marinade Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, white pepper, salt, and garam masala.

Coat Chicken

Add the chicken pieces and mix well until fully coated.

Refrigerate

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.

Preparing the Saffron Milk

Soak Saffron

Soak the saffron threads in warm milk and set aside to infuse its vibrant color and aroma.

Prep Onions and Spices

Chop the onions finely and prep the spices for a seamless cooking process.

Cooking Process

Sauté Spices

Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, and sauté until fragrant.

Caramelize Onions

Add sliced onions and sugar to the pan. Cook until onions are caramelized to a golden brown.

Simmer Chicken

Add marinated chicken to the pan, stir well, and cook until chicken is browned slightly. Pour in water, cover, and let it simmer until the chicken is tender.

Plating & Serving