Rampur’s Iconic Chicken Changezi: A Nawabi Legacy Served In Every Bite

Last Updated:June 06, 2025, 16:48 IST

Packed with spices, a creamy cashew-based gravy, and aromatic richness fried in desi ghee, Rampur’s Chicken Changezi is a dish that keeps you coming back for more

When it comes to royal cuisine, Uttar Pradesh’s Rampur is among the first names that come to mind. The Nawabi-era kitchen here remains just as rich and flavourful as it was in the past. One such delightful dish is Chicken Changezi, which many today associate with the flavours of Old Delhi.

If you’re someone who seeks a new twist in chicken dishes each time, this traditional recipe from Rampur is sure to impress. Packed with spices, a creamy cashew-based gravy, and aromatic richness fried in desi ghee, it’s a dish that will leave you licking your fingers.

Rampur’s royal chef, Mahir Ahmed, shared that he learned this recipe from his grandfather and still prepares it in the exact same way. According to him, the true essence of Chicken Changezi comes out only when it’s slow-cooked in a copper vessel, allowing the spices enough time to release their aroma.

While sharing the recipe of the dish, he mentioned that the chicken is first marinated in curd, ginger-garlic paste, and red chilli powder, and then fried in a generous amount of ghee and butter until it turns golden brown.

Meanwhile, a thick, flavourful gravy is prepared using onion, tomato, cashew paste, and local spices. Mahir adds that a touch of cream and kasuri methi elevates the dish, giving it a soft, luxurious, and royal taste. “Whoever eats it once, always asks for it again,” he says with pride.

In Rampur, Chicken Changezi is reserved for special occasions—whether to honour a guest or to celebrate a festival. Paired with tandoori roti, this dish never fails to make the day extra special for those who get to enjoy it.

Location :

Rampurhat, India, India

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