Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, chicken masala, black pepper, vinegar, tomato paste, and salt. Mix well to coat all pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-high. Cook for another 5 minutes until excess liquid evaporates and chicken develops light golden edges.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Gradually pour the warmed milk into the roux while whisking constantly. Continue whisking as the mixture heats and thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir the oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper into the white sauce. Remove from heat.
- Pour the white sauce evenly over the cooked chicken in the pan. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and chopped cilantro over the top.
- Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts completely. Optional: place under broiler for 1 to 2 minutes for golden brown spots on cheese.
- Serve hot directly from the pan with Turkish pide, naan, or rice.
Notes
Storage: Best eaten fresh. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creamy consistency. Do not freeze as white sauce will separate. Make-Ahead: Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor. White sauce can be made 2 hours ahead and reheated with additional milk if needed. Variations: Replace half the milk with heavy cream for richer sauce. Substitute shrimp (cook 3-4 minutes) or cauliflower for chicken. Use sweet paprika instead of chili powder for milder version. Add fresh jalapeƱos for more heat. Pro Tip: Warm milk before adding to roux prevents lumps. Use freshly shredded mozzarella for best melting. Place under broiler briefly for restaurant-style golden cheese top.
