Chicken Thigh Saag Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 10, 2025

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Chicken Thigh Saag: A Flavorful and Aromatic Indian Delight

Saag, a staple in Indian cuisine, is a vibrant and flavorful dish typically made with spinach. This recipe elevates the classic by incorporating succulent chicken thighs for a hearty and satisfying meal. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this simple yet incredibly delicious Chicken Thigh Saag recipe!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.

• For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• For the Saag:

  • 1 large bunch of fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped (about 10 oz)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for richness)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (longer is better for maximum flavor!).

Sautéing the Onions and Spices:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies (if using). Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Cooking the Spinach:

1. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until it wilts down, about 5-7 minutes. You can cover the pan to help the spinach wilt faster.

Adding the Chicken and Spices:

1. Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Stir in the coriander powder and salt. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.

Finishing the Dish:

1. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and simmer for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your delicious Chicken Thigh Saag hot with naan bread, roti, or jeera rice. The creamy, flavorful sauce is perfect for dipping!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to control the spice level.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like peas, potatoes, or cauliflower for a heartier saag.
• Creaminess: For a vegan option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.

This Chicken Thigh Saag recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the aromatic flavors and creamy texture of this classic Indian dish, elevated with the addition of tender chicken thighs. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!