Cluck yeah! Delhi NCR, a haven for foodies of all persuasions, boasts a symphony of flavours unlike any other. But for those who crave the succulent, the savoury, the downright clucking good – chicken reigns supreme. Forget the tired tropes of butter chicken, friends. We’re diving into a world of hidden street food gems, legendary restaurant creations, and enough chickeny goodness to leave you saying “buck buck buck YUM!
A Royal Affair: Mughlai Chicken Delights
Delhi NCR’s culinary tapestry is woven with Mughal influences, and their love affair with chicken shines through. Let’s start with a true legend – the Tandoori Chicken from Moti Mahal. This isn’t your average takeaway. Marinated in yoghurt and aromatic spices, the chicken is cooked in a clay tandoor, emerging with a smoky perfection that will have you yearning for seconds.
For something richer and more decadent, head to Al Jawahar. Their Chicken Curries are a symphony of Mughlai magic. Think succulent morsels of chicken bathed in creamy gravies, redolent with cardamom, saffron, and a hint of regal indulgence.
Street Food Sensations: Clucking on the Go
Delhi NCR’s bustling streets are a treasure trove for chicken aficionados. At Andhra Bhavan, the Chicken Fry is a revelation. This South Indian speciality features bite-sized pieces of chicken marinated in fiery masalas, then deep-fried to crispy perfection. Each morsel is a flavour explosion, guaranteed to wake up your taste buds.
Karim’s, a legendary institution known for its kebabs, also offers a chicken delight not to be missed – the Chicken Seekh Kebab. Minced chicken, infused with fragrant herbs and spices, is moulded onto skewers and grilled to juicy perfection. Dip it into creamy chutney and savour the melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Global Cluckery: A World of Chicken Inspiration
Delhi NCR embraces international influences too. Aslam Chicken’s Ghee Roast Chicken is a love letter to Chettinad cuisine. Marinated in a fiery masala paste packed with chilies and aromatics, the chicken is slow-cooked in ghee, resulting in a dish that’s both intensely flavourful and surprisingly tender.
Bawarchi’s Biryani Bliss: A One-Pot Symphony
No exploration of Delhi NCR’s chicken scene is complete without diving into the world of biryani. Head to Babu Shahi Bawarchi or Matka Peer for an experience that will leave you swooning. Their Chicken Biryani is a masterpiece, fragrant rice layered with succulent chicken pieces, aromatic spices, and sealed with a golden layer of fried onions. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavours, a celebration of culinary artistry.
Beyond the Bite: A Clucking Good Adventure
This is just a taste (pun intended) of the clucking good chicken experiences that await you in Delhi NCR. From fiery street food finds to melt-in-your-mouth restaurant creations, there’s something for every palate. So, ditch the bland and embrace the bold! Grab a friend, hit the streets, and embark on a delicious culinary chicken adventure.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pair your chickeny delights with refreshing accompaniments like raita, chutneys, and cooling drinks like lassi. You might also want to explore the vibrant street food scene for accompaniments like fried onions and chopped coriander.
Clucking Adventurer’s Checklist:
Moti Mahal’s Tandoori Chicken
Moti Mahal is synonymous with tandoori chicken, and for good reason. Their version is a masterpiece of simplicity. Marinated in yogurt, lemon juice, and a secret blend of spices, the chicken is cooked in a clay tandoor oven until beautifully charred on the outside and unbelievably juicy within. A timeless classic!
Al Jawahar’s Chicken Curry
This legendary restaurant in Jama Masjid, Old Delhi is a pilgrimage site for chicken aficionados. Their signature dish features succulent pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy, tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic whole spices. A single bite transports you to a bygone era of Mughal opulence.
Andhra Bhavan’s Chicken Fry
Head to the Andhra Bhavan canteen for a taste of fiery Andhra cuisine. Their Chicken Fry is a revelation. Succulent pieces of chicken are marinated in a fiery red masala, pan-fried, and served with cooling chutneys. Be warned, this one packs a punch!
Karim’s Chicken Seekh Kebab
No street food exploration in Delhi NCR is complete without a visit to Karim’s. Their legendary Chicken Seekh Kebabs are a must-try. Minced chicken is mixed with fragrant spices, skewered, and grilled to perfection. Each bite is a burst of flavour and texture.
Aslam Chicken’s Ghee Roast Chicken
This iconic restaurant in Chittli Qabar Rd, Old Delhi serves up a unique take on chicken inspired by Chettinad cuisine. The Ghee Roast Chicken is marinated in a fiery spice blend and cooked in lashings of ghee, resulting in a dish that is both deeply flavourful and incredibly rich.
Babu Shahi Bawarchi or Matka Peer Biryani
This unique biryani comes sealed in an earthenware pot (matka), which adds to the flavour and aroma. The chicken is cooked with rice, spices, and yoghurt, resulting in a dish that is both moist and flavourful.
With this guide and a healthy dose of adventurous spirit, you’re all set to explore the clucking good world of chicken in Delhi NCR. Happy clucking!
