Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Achari Masala (Spices)

   Add 2 tbsp coriander seeds, 1 tbsp fennel seeds, 1 tbsp cumin, and 1 tsp mustard seeds to a grinder.

2. 2.Lightly Crush Masala

   Lightly crush the spices in the grinder. Ensure it is not a fine powder, but rather a coarse mixture.

3. 3.Combine Masala Ingredients

   Transfer the crushed masala to a bowl. Add 1/2 tsp nigella seeds, 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds, 1 tsp mango powder, 2 tsp crushed red chilli, 2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, and 1 tsp red chilli powder.

4. 4.Mix Achari Masala

   Mix all the added spices thoroughly in the bowl until well combined.

5. 5.Prepare Achari Mirch Filling

   In a separate small bowl, take 2 tbsp of the prepared achari masala and add 1 tbsp lemon juice. Mix well to form a thick paste.

6. 6.Stuff Green Chillies

   Take 6 green chillies, make a slit down the middle of each, and carefully remove the seeds. Fill each chilli with the prepared achari mirch paste. Set aside.

7. 7.Sauté Onions

   Place a pot on medium heat and add 1/2 cup oil. Once hot, add 3 medium sliced onions and cook until they become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

8. 8.Add Ginger and Garlic Paste

   Add 1 tbsp garlic paste and 1 tbsp ginger paste to the translucent onions in the pot. Stir well.

9. 9.Cook Chicken

   Add 1 Kg of medium-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Cook, stirring continuously, until the chicken pieces turn white, approximately 3-4 minutes.

10. 10.Add Remaining Masala

    Add the remaining achari masala (from step 4) to the chicken and mix thoroughly, ensuring all chicken pieces are coated.

11. 11.Add Tomatoes and Yogurt

    Add 3 medium chopped tomatoes and 1/2 cup yogurt to the chicken. Mix all ingredients well until combined.

12. 12.Simmer Chicken

    Cover the pot and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes. Stir every 3 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even cooking, until the chicken is tender and the oil separates from the gravy.

13. 13.Add Stuffed Chillies

    Add the prepared achari mirch (stuffed green chillies) to the chicken curry.

14. 14.Cook Chillies

    Cover the pot again and cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors of the chillies to infuse.

15. 15.Finish with Lemon Juice and Cilantro

    Remove the lid, add 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1/2 cup chopped cilantro. Gently mix everything together.

16. 16.Dum Cook

    Cover the pot and cook on low heat (dum) for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to become extra tender.

17. 17.Serve Achari Chicken

    Dish out the Achari Chicken and serve hot with naan or rice.