Nati Chicken Recipe – A Traditional Andhra Delight

If you’ve ever tasted authentic Andhra cuisine, you already know there’s something unforgettable about the bold flavors, earthy aroma, and fiery spices that bring every dish to life. Among those mouthwatering delicacies, Nati Chicken holds a special place. Often made with country chicken (desi chicken), this dish stands out because of its deep, rustic flavor and its slow-cooked richness that makes every bite a treat.
Unlike regular broiler chicken recipes, Nati Chicken takes time, patience, and a generous hand with spices — but the end result is fully worth it. This Andhra-style preparation is not just a dish; it's an experience of tradition, warmth, and pure comfort food.
Let’s dive into this flavorful journey.

What Makes Nati Chicken Special?
Nati Chicken is prepared using country chicken, which has a firmer texture and stronger flavor than farm chicken. It absorbs spices beautifully and becomes tender slowly, allowing the masalas to truly seep in. The traditional Andhra-style masala base — a blend of onions, ginger-garlic, pepper, chili, and aromatic spices — gives this dish its signature punch.
Some families even make their own spice mix, adding roasted coriander seeds, fennel, cloves, and pepper. The aroma that fills the home is enough to make everyone gather around the kitchen.

Ingredients You Need
To make an authentic Andhra-style Nati Chicken, here’s what you’ll need:
•    Nati chicken (country chicken), cleaned and cut
•    Onions, finely chopped
•    Tomatoes, chopped
•    Green chilies
•    Ginger-garlic paste
•    Turmeric powder
•    Red chili powder
•    Coriander powder
•    Black pepper powder
•    Garam masala
•    Curry leaves
•    Fresh coriander leaves
•    Oil (usually peanut or sunflower oil in Andhra homes)
•    Salt as needed
•    Water for cooking
For enhanced flavor, many people also roast whole spices like dry red chilies, coriander seeds, pepper, cumin, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon to make a special masala powder.

How to Make Andhra-Style Nati Chicken
Step 1: Heat the Base
Start by heating oil in a heavy-bottomed kadai. Add curry leaves and let them crackle. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. This step is important — the deeper the color, the richer the flavor.
Step 2: Add Ginger-Garlic Paste
Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears. This forms the foundation of the dish’s earthy aroma.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Sauté the spices in the oil to release their flavors. Add tomatoes and cook until they become soft and blend with the masala.
Step 4: Add the Nati Chicken
Now add the pieces of country chicken. Mix well so every piece is coated with the masala. Since Nati Chicken is tougher than regular chicken, it needs more time to cook. This is where patience pays off.
Step 5: Slow-Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on medium flame. You can add a little water if needed, but remember — the beauty of this dish lies in its thick, concentrated gravy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Add Pepper & Garam Masala
Once the chicken becomes soft and fully cooked, sprinkle pepper powder and garam masala. This adds warmth, aroma, and that typical Andhra-style punch.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh coriander leaves and a few more curry leaves if you love the fragrance.

Best Served With…
Nati Chicken tastes heavenly with:
•    Hot rice
•    Ragi balls
•    Jowar rotte
•    Soft chapatis
•    Ghee rice
Andhra households usually pair it with warm rice and a dollop of ghee for the perfect comfort meal.

Final Thoughts
Nati Chicken is not just a recipe; it’s a taste of Andhra’s heritage. Every spoonful brings the rustic charm of countryside cooking, the boldness of spices, and the warmth of home-style food. If you’re looking to create a dish that is rich, spicy, and soulful, this Andhra-style Nati Chicken is the perfect choice.
Slow-cooked, spice-packed, and full of authenticity — this recipe is a celebration of Andhra’s culinary soul. Enjoy cooking it, and even more, enjoy sharing it with your loved ones!

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