Indian cuisine is beloved worldwide, renowned for its vibrant spices, diverse flavours, and rich textures.
The strong, aromatic tastes of Indian dishes captivate people of all ages, making it a favourite across continents. From the fiery heat of Chicken Vindaloo to the creamy richness of Butter Chicken, the variations in Indian chicken dishes offer something for every palate.
Melbourne, with its multicultural food scene, is a hotspot for experiencing these delectable dishes, each promising a culinary journey through the heart of India.
10 Best Popular Indian Chicken Dishes in Melbourne
1. Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
Butter Chicken is a classic Indian dish known for its rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. The chicken is marinated in yoghourt and spices, grilled, and then simmered in a luscious gravy made with butter, cream, and a blend of spices. It’s mildly spiced, making it a favourite among those who prefer a less intense heat level.
2. Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is arguably one of the most famous Indian chicken dishes worldwide. It features chunks of marinated chicken cooked in a tandoor (traditional clay oven) and then simmered in a tomato-based sauce that’s spiced with garam masala, cumin, and coriander. The result is a dish that’s smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet.
3. Chicken Korma
Chicken Korma is a rich and creamy dish made with chicken cooked in a yoghourt based sauce that includes almonds, cashews, and a blend of fragrant spices. It’s mildly spiced and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
4. Chicken Vindaloo
For those who love a fiery kick, Chicken Vindaloo is the dish to try. Originating from Goa, this dish is known for its intense heat and tangy flavour, thanks to a marinade of vinegar, garlic, and a blend of hot spices. It’s a must-try for spice enthusiasts.
5. Chicken Jalfrezi
Chicken Jalfrezi is a stir-fry dish that features chicken cooked with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes in a thick, spicy sauce. It’s known for its vibrant colours and bold flavours, with a perfect balance of heat and tanginess.
6. Chicken Chettinad
Hailing from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, Chicken Chettinad is known for its complex and robust flavours. The chicken is cooked in a masala made with roasted spices, coconut, and tamarind, resulting in a dish that’s spicy, aromatic, and slightly tangy.
7. Chicken Curry
Chicken Curry is a staple in Indian households and varies from region to region. The version commonly found in Melbourne features chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and onion gravy, with the addition of coconut milk or cream for richness. It’s a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect with rice or bread.
8. Chicken 65
Chicken 65 is a popular South Indian appetiser that’s spicy, tangy, and crispy. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, and spices, then deep-fried until crispy. It’s often garnished with curry leaves and green chillies for an extra kick.
9. Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori Chicken is a classic Indian dish where chicken is marinated in yoghourt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor. The result is juicy, smoky, and flavorful chicken that’s often served with naan and a side of mint chutney.
10. Chicken Madras
Chicken Madras is a popular dish from the Tamil Nadu region, known for its fiery heat and deep flavours. The chicken is cooked in a spicy curry made with tomatoes, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, resulting in a dish that’s rich, tangy, and incredibly flavorful.
Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 1 cup plain yoghourt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the yoghourt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and salt. Add the chicken chunks and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or oven to 200°C (390°F). Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from the skewers and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Add the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the oil starts to separate from the sauce.
4. Finish the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.
The Influence of Indian Culture in Melbourne
Melbourne’s Indian community has grown significantly over the past few decades, contributing richly to the city’s cultural mosaic. Indian immigrants have brought with them not only their professional skills but also their vibrant cultural traditions. That includes festivals like Diwali and Holi, traditional music and dance, and, of course, their diverse cuisine. This infusion of Indian culture has led to a thriving scene of Indian restaurants and eateries throughout Melbourne, where locals and visitors alike can experience the authentic flavours and hospitality of India. The Indian influence is evident in various aspects of Melbourne’s daily life, making it a dynamic and multicultural city.
Delightful Array of Chicken Dishes
Indian restaurants in Melbourne offer a delightful array of chicken dishes that showcase the diverse and rich flavours of Indian cuisine. Whether you prefer something mild and creamy like Butter Chicken or something spicy and tangy like Chicken Vindaloo, there’s a dish to suit every taste. The recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala included above is a great way to bring a taste of India into your home.
Enjoy exploring the wonderful world of Indian chicken dishes in Melbourne!
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