Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the yogurt, tomato paste, ginger-garlic paste, vinegar, paprika, oregano, cumin, red chili powder, black pepper, and salt in a large bowl. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes until the liquid has fully evaporated and the chicken is cooked through with slightly browned edges. Cover and cook on low for 2 more minutes if needed.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux is smooth and pale.
- Add the milk gradually in a slow, steady stream while whisking continuously. Add the dried parsley, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring regularly, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Pour the white sauce evenly over the cooked chicken in the frying pan, spooning it over every piece.
- Scatter the shredded mozzarella and cheddar over the top along with fresh cilantro or parsley and red chili flakes if using.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly across the surface.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey. Spoon over garlic rice or serve with warm pita or naan bread.
Notes
Marinade Time: Minimum 1 hour, up to 4 hours for best flavor and tenderness. Overnight marinating produces the most tender results. Lumpy Sauce Fix: If bechamel turns lumpy, remove from heat and whisk vigorously, or strain through a fine mesh sieve and return to low heat. Cheese Swap: Kashkaval cheese is the traditional Turkish choice and melts beautifully with a nuttier flavor. Sizzler Presentation: Transfer cooked chicken to a preheated cast-iron skillet before adding sauce and cheese for a restaurant-style sizzling presentation. Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore the sauce consistency. Serving: Best with garlic rice, buttery naan, or warm pita bread.
