Lazy Chicken (Traditional Clay Pot Style)

Step 1: Clean and Prepare Chicken

Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly in a clay pot with water until clean. Drain the water completely.

Step 2: Prepare Ginger and Garlic Paste

Take ginger and garlic. Crush them using a mortar and pestle to form a coarse paste.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the crushed ginger-garlic paste to the cleaned chicken in the clay pot. Add curry leaves, chili powder, chicken masala powder, and salt to taste. Mix all ingredients well with your hands, ensuring the chicken pieces are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Wood Fire Stove

Set up a small wood fire stove. Collect dry twigs and leaves, arrange them inside the stove, and light them to create a steady flame.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Place the clay pot with the marinated chicken directly onto the lit wood fire stove. Stir the chicken occasionally, especially during the initial 5-7 minutes, to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Continue cooking, allowing the chicken to release its own juices, which will form a natural gravy. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through, approximately 20-25 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked and tender, remove the clay pot from the stove. The 'Lazy Chicken' is ready to be served hot.

• Ensure ginger and garlic are thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt before crushing.

• Stir the chicken occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking, especially in the initial stages.

• No additional water is needed as the chicken releases its own juices, creating a natural gravy.

• For a richer flavor, you may add a small amount of cooking oil if desired, but it's optional for a healthier version.

• Add chopped onions and tomatoes for a more traditional gravy base.

• Adjust the amount of chili powder and chicken masala to suit your spice preference.