Anglo-Indian Chicken Stew is a classic dish prepared in most Anglo-Indian households, particularly during the winter months when a variety of fresh seasonal vegetables are readily available. It is slow-cooked with mild spices, making it both flavourful and nutritious. The addition of coconut milk lends a creamy texture and enhances the overall taste. This comforting stew can be served with warm steamed rice, bread, or enjoyed on its own.

Anglo Indian Style Chicken Stew
Ingredients
- Oil: 5 tbsp
- Cloves: 4
- Cinnamon stick: 1
- Cardamom pods: 3
- Peppercorns: ½ tsp
- Bay leaf: 1
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Green chillies: 2 (slit lengthwise)
- Chicken: 400 gms
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, finely chopped
- Salt: as per taste
- Carrots: chopped
- Cauliflower florets
- Bottle gourd: diced
- Potatoes: diced
- Peas: a handful
- Beans: chopped
- Pepper powder: 1 tsp
- Water: 1½ cups
- Coconut milk: ½ cup
Method:
- Heat the oil:
Begin by heating 5 tablespoons of oil in a large pan. - Sauté the spices:
Once the oil is hot, add the cloves, cinnamon stick, cardamom, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Sauté for a minute until aromatic. - Cook the onions and chillies:
Add the chopped onions to the pan and fry until they turn golden brown. Add the slit green chillies according to your spice preference. - Add the chicken and ginger:
Add the chicken pieces and finely chopped ginger to the pan. Sprinkle some salt and fry until the chicken is browned and coated in the spices. - Add the vegetables:
Toss in the chopped seasonal vegetables. In this recipe, I’ve added carrots, cauliflower, bottle gourd, potatoes, peas, and beans. You can also add pumpkin if desired. - Season and simmer:
Add pepper powder and a bit more salt to taste. Give everything a good stir and then add 1.5 cups of water. Cover the pan and let the stew simmer on low heat until the chicken and vegetables are tender. - Finish with coconut milk:
Once the stew is cooked, pour in the coconut milk. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavours. - Serve:
This delicious, creamy stew is now ready to be served. Pair it with warm steamed rice or bread for a satisfying meal
This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family and is made with love and care. It’s a dish that truly embodies warmth and comfort, perfect for cold winter days. Do give this recipe a try – I’m sure you’ll love it!
Watch this recipe here – Anglo Indian Style Chicken Stew

Alison Lethorn is a self-taught home chef from an Anglo-Indian family, where food has always played a central role in bringing people together. Her culinary journey was inspired by her grandmother’s traditional cooking and her parents’ deep appreciation for authentic flavours.
These influences ignited Alison’s passion for creating recipes that are both easy to prepare and rich in flavour, using locally sourced ingredients. This philosophy has resonated with those seeking accessible, home-style cooking.
Now residing in Noida with her family, Alison continues to explore and share recipes that make cooking an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Through her work, she aims to inspire others to embrace the joy of creating wholesome, flavourful meals.
Translations and detailed descriptions are provided to give a better understanding of the story to people from different cultural backgrounds across the globe.