Chicken masala powder is a flavorful spice blend used to enhance the taste and aroma of chicken dishes. It’s a staple in Indian and South Asian cuisine, adding a delightful combination of spices to create a well-rounded and robust flavor profile. Here’s a basic recipe for making chicken masala powder at home:

Ingredients

1. Coriander Seeds – 1/4 cup
2. Cumin Seeds – 2 tablespoons
3. Black Peppercorns – 1 tablespoon
4. Green Cardamom Pods – 6-8
5. Cloves – 6-8
6. Cinnamon Stick – 2-inch piece
7. Bay Leaves – 2-3
8. Dried Red Chilies – 4-6 (adjust to taste)
9. Fennel Seeds – 1 tablespoon
10. Turmeric Powder – 1 teaspoon
11. Nutmeg – a small pinch (optional)
12. Mace – a small pinch (optional)

Instructions

Dry Roasting

In a dry skillet over low heat, individually roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, green cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and dried red chilies. Stir frequently to prevent burning and roast until fragrant. This process enhances the flavors of the spices.

Cooling

Once roasted, remove the spices from the skillet and allow them to cool completely. The spices should not be hot when you grind them.

Grinding

Once cooled, combine all the roasted spices along with the fennel seeds, turmeric powder, nutmeg, and mace (if using) in a spice grinder or blender. Grind everything to a fine powder. You may need to do this in batches.

Sieving (optional)

If you want an even finer texture, you can sieve the ground spice blend to remove any coarse bits. The sieved masala will be smoother and more suitable for certain dishes.

Storage

Store the chicken masala powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can be used for several months, but for the best flavor, use it within 2-3 months.

Usage

This chicken masala powder can be used to marinate chicken before cooking, added to sauces and gravies, or sprinkled over dishes like roasted or grilled chicken. It adds depth, warmth, and complexity to your culinary creations.

Remember, you can adjust the quantities of the spices to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with the blend until you find the perfect balance of flavors that you enjoy.