# Chicken Salna Recipe – Tamil Nadu Style
Chicken Salna, also referred to as Chicken Chalna, is a flavorful and fragrant chicken curry that originates from the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This dish is particularly renowned as an accompaniment to South Indian style Parotta, a flaky layered flatbread, and is frequently enjoyed at roadside vendors and eateries across the region. The pairing of Chicken Salna and Parotta represents a cherished culinary experience that encapsulates the spirit of Tamil Nadu’s street food scene.
## Ingredients
### For the Chicken Marinade:
– 500 grams of chicken, chopped into pieces
– 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– Salt to taste
### For the Salna:
– 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably coconut oil)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2-3 green chilies, split
– 1-2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup of grated coconut
– 1/4 cup of roasted chickpeas (puttu kadala)
– 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds
– 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
– 1-2 bay leaves
– 1-2 sprigs of curry leaves
– 1-2 cups of water (adjust for preferred consistency)
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
## Instructions
### Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Combine thoroughly and let it marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes.
### Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix
2. In a dry skillet, toast the cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and black peppercorns until aromatic. Allow them to cool, then grind to a fine powder.
### Step 3: Cook the Salna
3. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Introduce the bay leaves, followed by the sliced onions. Sauté until the onions are golden brown.
4. Add the split green chilies and diced tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
5. Incorporate the marinated chicken and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned.
6. Stir in the grated coconut, roasted chickpeas, and the ground spice mixture. Mix thoroughly.
7. Add 1-2 cups of water, depending on your desired thickness. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
8. Toss in the curry leaves and adjust salt as needed.
### Step 4: Garnish and Serve
9. Once finished, garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot alongside flaky Parotta, biryani, appam, or chapati.
## Conclusion
Chicken Salna is an essential dish that showcases the vibrant flavors and culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu. Its distinctive combination of spices and ingredients results in a fragrant, tasty curry that complements a variety of Indian breads. Whether indulging in it at a roadside stall or preparing it at home, Chicken Salna is bound to become a staple in your cooking collection. Savor this delightful dish during festive times or as a comforting meal any day of the week!