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Chicken Saagwala (Chicken with Spinach) Recipe

Emily Carter
A flavorful, creamy dish with tender chicken simmered in spiced spinach gravy.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken boneless, cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

For the Spinach Gravy:

  • 4 cups fresh spinach washed & chopped
  • 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 tomato pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ cup heavy cream or yogurt
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter for finishing touch

For Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • A squeeze of lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Marinate the chicken with lemon juice, salt, and turmeric. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
  • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
  • Throw in the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  • Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
  • Add the tomato puree, then mix in coriander, garam masala, red chili, and turmeric powder.
  • Cook the masala until it thickens and oil starts separating.
  • Drop in the marinated chicken and cook until it turns white on all sides.
  • Meanwhile, blanch the spinach in boiling water for 2 minutes, then blend into a smooth puree.
  • Pour the spinach puree into the pan and let everything simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Stir in cream or yogurt to make it rich and velvety.
  • Finish with a tablespoon of butter for that restaurant-style shine.
  • Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g

Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Iron: 20%
  • Vitamin A: 35%
  • Vitamin C: 15%
  • Calcium: 10%
  • Potassium: 18%

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Saagwala

  • Blanch the spinach quickly to keep its vibrant green color.
  • Use yogurt for a lighter version or cream for indulgence.
  • Don’t overcook the spinach—nobody wants dull, lifeless greens.
  • Add a smoky twist by stirring in a little charred cumin powder.
  • Pair with garlic naan because carbs make everything better.
This Chicken Saagwala is proof that spinach can be exciting. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavorful spices, it’s a must-try dish!