Chicken Rogan Josh is a vibrant, aromatic curry that originates from the beautiful valleys of Kashmir. Traditionally made with lamb, this chicken version offers a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative while preserving the soul of the original dish.

What makes Rogan Josh truly special is its deep red color, not from tomatoes or artificial coloring, but from Kashmiri red chilies and aromatic spices gently bloomed in oil. The word “Rogan” means oil and “Josh” means heat or passion, symbolizing the rich, fiery oil that floats on top of this glorious curry.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Chicken Rogan Josh because it feels like a celebration in every bite. The balance of warmth from spices, the gentle tang of yogurt, and the rich aroma of slow-cooked gravy make it incredibly satisfying.

It’s a dish that doesn’t rely on cream or heavy sweetness—just pure spices and technique. Every time I cook it, my kitchen fills with a fragrance that feels both nostalgic and luxurious.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Authentic Kashmiri flavors
Rich red color without tomatoes or cream
Aromatic, not overly spicy
Perfect for dinner parties and festive meals
Pairs beautifully with both rice and Indian breads
Tastes even better the next day

Recipe Overview

Category	Details
Course	Main Course
Cuisine	Kashmiri / North Indian
Preparation Time	25 minutes
Cooking Time	40 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes
Servings	4 servings
Calories per Serving	~400–450 calories

Ingredients

For Marinating the Chicken

700 g chicken (bone-in preferred)
1 cup thick yogurt (curd)
1 tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste

Whole Spices

3 tbsp mustard oil (traditional) or any cooking oil
2 bay leaves
4 green cardamoms
4 cloves
1-inch cinnamon stick
1 tsp cumin seeds

Ground Spices

2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
1½ tsp fennel powder (saunf)
1 tsp dry ginger powder (saunth)
1 tsp garam masala

Other Ingredients

2 medium onions, finely sliced
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1¼ cups warm water
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Directions (Quick Overview)

Marinate chicken with yogurt and spices.
Heat oil and bloom whole spices.
Fry onions until golden.
Add ginger-garlic paste and ground spices.
Add chicken and slow cook.
Simmer till rich, red gravy forms.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix yogurt, turmeric, and salt.
Add chicken and coat well.
Marinate for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Heat mustard oil in a heavy pan until it smokes lightly.
Lower the heat and add bay leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and cumin seeds.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Add sliced onions and sauté till golden brown.

Step 4: Add Aromatics & Spices

Add ginger-garlic paste and cook 2 minutes.
Add Kashmiri chili powder, fennel powder, dry ginger powder, and garam masala.
Stir on low heat to prevent burning.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add marinated chicken.
Sauté on medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes.

Step 6: Simmer

Add warm water.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes till chicken is tender and oil separates.

How to Serve

Serve Chicken Rogan Josh hot with:

Steamed basmati rice
Jeera rice
Butter naan
Tandoori roti
Kashmiri pulao

Garnish with:

Fresh coriander
Slivered ginger
A drizzle of mustard oil (optional)

Recipe Tips

✔ Always use Kashmiri chili powder for color without too much heat
✔ Mustard oil gives authentic taste
✔ Do not add tomatoes or cream traditionally
✔ Slow cooking enhances flavor
✔ Resting overnight intensifies taste

Variations (Detailed)

1. Traditional Mutton Rogan Josh

Replace chicken with lamb and cook for 90 minutes.

2. Creamy Rogan Josh

Add ¼ cup fresh cream for a richer gravy.

3. Spicy Rogan Josh

Add regular red chili powder along with Kashmiri chili.

4. Andhra-Style Rogan Josh

Add curry leaves and extra garlic for a South Indian twist.

5. Instant Pot Rogan Josh

Pressure cook for 10 minutes after sautéing.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigerator: 3–4 days in airtight container
Freezer: Up to 2 months
Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop, add water if thick

Special Equipment Needed

Heavy-bottom pan or Dutch oven
Wooden spatula
Mixing bowls
Measuring spoons
Pressure cooker (optional)

FAQ

Q: Is Rogan Josh very spicy?
No, it’s aromatic and warm, not fiery.

Q: Why is my Rogan Josh pale?
Use Kashmiri chili powder and proper oil tempering.

Q: Can I make this without mustard oil?
Yes, but mustard oil adds authentic flavor.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but bone-in gives richer taste.

Q: Is Rogan Josh healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein and dairy-based for digestion.

Conclusion

Chicken Rogan Josh is a timeless Kashmiri classic that brings warmth, aroma, and richness to the table without relying on heavy cream or sweetness. Its beautiful red color, slow-cooked tenderness, and fragrant spices make it perfect for both special occasions and hearty family dinners. If you love authentic Indian curries with depth and tradition, Chicken Rogan Josh is a must-have recipe in your kitchen.