Chicken Sukka
Meal Prep · South Indian

Chicken Sukka

A fiery and aromatic dry chicken preparation from the coastal regions of Karnataka, India.

Prep: 20 min
🔥Cook: 30 min
Total: 50 min
🍽4 servings
Non-Vegetarian
Chicken Sukka

Ingredients

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Method

Step-by-step
  1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken pieces with turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, black pepper powder, ginger-garlic paste, and salt. Mix well and let it rest for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator).
  2. Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the curry leaves and green chilies (if using) and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and cook until they turn golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture, forming a thick masala.
  5. Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken changes color and is lightly seared on all sides.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook in its own juices for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Add a splash of water if the mixture becomes too dry.
  7. Once the chicken is tender, stir in the grated fresh coconut. Cook uncovered for another 5-7 minutes on medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to dry out further to a ‘sukka’ consistency.
  8. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Garnish generously with fresh chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Nutrition

Per serving
NutrientAmount
Calories350 kcal
Protein30 g
Fat20 g
Carbohydrates15 g
Fiber3 g

Storage & Freezer Guide

Make it last
Refrigerator 3-4 days

Store cooled Chicken Sukka in an airtight container. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating.

Freezer Up to 2 months

Transfer cooled Sukka to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat Stovetop/Microwave

For stovetop, reheat over medium heat with a splash of water, stirring frequently until warmed through. For microwave, heat in intervals, stirring between each, until piping hot.

Chef’s Corner

  • For an authentic flavor, try to use freshly grated coconut. You can lightly dry roast it before adding for a deeper, nuttier taste.
  • Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red chili powder and green chilies. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the green chilies.
  • Marinating the chicken for a longer period (up to 4 hours or overnight in the fridge) significantly enhances its tenderness and allows the spices to penetrate deeper.
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