Kolkata, often referred to as the culinary capital of India, is a paradise for food enthusiasts. While the city is renowned for its delectable sweets and seafood, it also boasts a rich tradition of chicken dishes that have been perfected over generations. In this article, we’ll embark on a mouthwatering journey through the top 10 famous chicken dishes that make Kolkata’s culinary scene truly unforgettable.
- Chicken Biryani: Kolkata’s Chicken Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful masterpiece. Made with aromatic Basmati rice, succulent chicken pieces, and a blend of spices, this dish is often garnished with crispy fried onions and served with a side of raita. Arsalan and Shiraz Golden Restaurant are some renowned places to savor this delicacy.
- Chicken Rezala: Chicken Rezala is a creamy and mildly spiced curry made with tender chicken pieces and a yogurt-based gravy. It’s known for its subtle flavors and is typically enjoyed with naan or paratha. Sabir’s Hotel and Aminia are famous for their Chicken Rezala.
- Chicken Chaap: Chicken Chaap is a slow-cooked chicken dish marinated in a luscious yogurt and cashew nut gravy. The succulent meat falls off the bone, and the dish is rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent. Try it at Zeeshan and Arsalan.
- Chicken Kosha: A spicy chicken curry slow-cooked to perfection, Chicken Kosha is a Bengali classic. It’s known for its robust flavors and is often enjoyed with steamed rice or luchi (deep-fried bread). Golbari and Koshe Kosha serve some of the best Chicken Kosha in town.
- Chicken Cutlet: Kolkata’s street food scene is incomplete without Chicken Cutlet. Minced chicken is mixed with spices, herbs, and breadcrumbs, shaped into patties, and deep-fried to golden perfection. It’s a popular snack or appetizer and can be found at various street stalls.
- Chicken Roll: The Kolkata Chicken Roll is an iconic street food item. It consists of succulent chicken pieces marinated in spices, cooked on a griddle, and wrapped in a paratha along with onions, cucumbers, and tangy sauces. Nizam’s and Kusum Rolls are legendary for their Chicken Rolls.
- Butter Chicken: While Butter Chicken has Punjabi origins, it has found its way into Kolkata’s culinary scene and is much-loved by locals. Creamy tomato-based gravy, tender chicken pieces, and a hint of butter make this dish a must-try. Enjoy it at Oudh 1590 and Mocambo.
- Chicken Kasha: Chicken Kasha is another traditional Bengali chicken dish, known for its spicy and robust flavors. It features chicken cooked with a blend of aromatic spices and a generous amount of ghee (clarified butter). Try it at 6 Ballygunge Place.
- Tandoori Chicken: Tandoori Chicken is a North Indian classic that has found its way into Kolkata’s culinary heart. Marinated in yogurt and spices, this chicken is cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) to achieve a smoky, charred flavor. Peter Cat and Barbeque Nation serve excellent Tandoori Chicken.
- Chicken Afghani: Chicken Afghani is a creamy and mildly spiced chicken dish that’s often enjoyed as an appetizer. It’s marinated in a yogurt and cream mixture with aromatic spices and grilled to perfection. It’s a delightful treat at Shiraz Golden Restaurant and Aminia.
Conclusion
Kolkata’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of diverse and delicious chicken dishes, each with its own unique flavor profile. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy curries or crave the smokiness of tandoor-cooked chicken, Kolkata has something to offer every chicken lover. So, the next time you visit this gastronomic paradise, be sure to embark on a flavorful journey and savor these top 10 famous chicken dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
