Introduction
Chicken Pickle is one of the most popular non-vegetarian pickles in Andhra Pradesh. Known for its spicy, tangy, and rich flavor, this pickle combines tender chicken pieces with aromatic spices, garlic, and sesame oil.
It is a perfect accompaniment to hot rice, biryani, pulao, chapati, dosa, and even curd rice. When prepared properly and stored hygienically, Chicken Pickle remains flavorful for several weeks.
Ingredients
For 1 Kg Chicken
- 1 kg boneless chicken (small pieces)
- 150 g red chili powder
- 50 g mustard powder
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 75 g salt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 20 garlic cloves
- 250 ml sesame oil (gingelly oil)
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (optional)
For Tempering
- 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 2 sprigs curry leaves
- 6 dried red chilies
Preparation Time
| Details | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 20 Minutes |
| Cooking | 40 Minutes |
| Total Time | 1 Hour |
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Wash and drain the chicken thoroughly.
Add:
- Turmeric powder
- Salt
- Ginger-garlic paste
Mix well and marinate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a pan and cook the marinated chicken until all moisture evaporates.
The chicken should be fully cooked and dry.
Allow it to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Pickle Masala
In a large bowl mix:
- Red chili powder
- Mustard powder
- Salt (if needed)
Add the cooked chicken pieces and mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Prepare Tempering
Heat sesame oil.
Add:
- Mustard seeds
- Cumin seeds
- Curry leaves
- Dried red chilies
- Garlic cloves
Fry until aromatic.
Step 5: Mix Everything
Pour the hot tempered oil over the chicken mixture.
Add lemon juice and vinegar.
Mix thoroughly until every piece is coated with the spicy masala.
Step 6: Store
Allow the pickle to cool completely.
Transfer into a clean, dry glass jar.
Store in the refrigerator for best shelf life.
Shelf Life
- Refrigerated: 1–2 months
- Room Temperature: 1–2 weeks (depending on climate)
Always use a dry spoon and keep the pickle free from moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Pickle tastes excellent with:
- Hot steamed rice and ghee
- Biryani
- Pulao
- Chapati
- Dosa
- Curd rice
Tips for Perfect Chicken Pickle
- Use fresh chicken only.
- Cook until all moisture evaporates.
- Use good-quality sesame oil.
- Let the pickle cool before storing.
- Refrigerate to extend shelf life.
Conclusion
Andhra Chicken Pickle is a flavorful non-vegetarian delicacy loved for its spicy and tangy taste. Whether paired with rice, biryani, or chapati, this homemade pickle adds a burst of authentic Andhra flavor to every meal.