Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

What is Chicken Haleem?

Chicken Haleem is one of the most comforting and traditional dishes in Pakistani cuisine. It is a rich and wholesome meal prepared by slow-cooking chicken, lentils, wheat, and barley with carefully blended aromatic spices until everything comes together into a smooth, creamy stew. This slow-cooked texture is what makes haleem unique compared to a regular chicken curry or stew.

A Beloved Dish in Pakistani Culture

Haleem holds a special place in Pakistan’s food traditions. It is often cooked in large batches during Ramadan, on festive occasions, and for family gatherings. The dish is not just about taste but also about togetherness, as it brings families and communities closer when shared at iftar tables or celebrations.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

What Makes Chicken Haleem Special?

Unlike ordinary stews, haleem takes time and patience. The grains and lentils are cooked until they completely break down and blend with tender chicken. This slow process gives chicken haleem:

  • A thick, creamy consistency
  • A hearty and filling flavor
  • A balance of richness and nutrition

Because it combines chicken with lentils and grains, Pakistani chicken haleem is:

  • High in protein for strength and energy
  • Rich in fiber for digestion
  • Full of vitamins and minerals from lentils and grains

This makes it not just a delicious dish but also a nourishing one.

An Authentic Recipe Passed Through Generations

The authentic chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style has been passed down for generations, keeping alive the traditional cooking methods. Its taste is slightly creamy, mildly spiced, and deeply satisfying. Served with naan, paratha, or even on its own, it offers both comfort and nutrition, making it a timeless favorite in Pakistani households.

Why This Simple Chicken Haleem Recipe is Special

Cooking chicken haleem at home is often seen as a long and time-consuming process. Traditionally, it required hours of slow cooking to achieve the signature creamy texture and rich flavor. But this simple chicken haleem recipe proves that you can enjoy authentic taste and texture without spending the whole day in the kitchen. It is designed to give you the same comforting flavor of traditional haleem while keeping the method easy, quick, and modern.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

1. Quick and Easy Without Losing Flavor

This quick and easy chicken haleem recipe reduces cooking time but still captures the depth of taste you expect from authentic Pakistani haleem. By using smart cooking steps and blending grains and lentils properly, the dish gets its thick, hearty consistency in less time. It allows busy home cooks to prepare haleem without compromising on quality.

2. One-Pot Comfort with Minimal Effort

The one-pot chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style makes preparation and cleanup much easier. All ingredients cook together in a single pot, which means less mess in the kitchen. This method is perfect for everyday meals and for families who want to enjoy haleem without spending hours cleaning up afterward.

3. A Healthy and Nutritious Choice

Unlike heavy curries, healthy chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style is packed with nutrients. Chicken adds lean protein, while lentils and grains bring fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The balance of grains and spices makes this dish filling, energizing, and suitable for family dinners, Ramadan iftar, and even as a weekend comfort meal.

4. Perfect for Every Occasion

This easy homemade chicken haleem works beautifully for:

  • Ramadan iftar tables: a nourishing dish that keeps you full and energized
  • Family dinner: a one-pot meal everyone can enjoy
  • Festive gatherings: an authentic recipe to impress guests

5. Same Traditional Flavor, Less Time

The beauty of this homemade chicken haleem Pakistani style is that it maintains the same creamy, rich flavor you’d expect from traditional recipes but in a fraction of the time. It is smooth, hearty, and deeply satisfying, making it a dish you can prepare often without the stress of long cooking hours.

Ingredients for Chicken Haleem

Making a delicious and authentic chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style begins with the right balance of grains, lentils, spices, and chicken. The combination of these ingredients gives haleem its rich taste, creamy texture, and nourishing qualities. Below are the key ingredients and expert tips to help you prepare the perfect haleem at home.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Key Ingredients

  • Chicken – 500g (boneless or bone-in) – forms the protein base of haleem. Using chicken adds a tender, hearty flavor to the dish.
  • Mixed Lentils – 1 cup (red lentils, yellow lentils, and split lentils) – these break down into a smooth paste during slow cooking, giving haleem its creamy body.
  • Wheat or Barley – ¼ cup – essential for thickness and a nutty flavor.
  • Onions – 2 medium, finely sliced – fried onions add sweetness and aroma.
  • Ginger-Garlic Paste – 1 tbsp – a classic base for flavor and depth.
  • Tomatoes – 2 medium, chopped – add tanginess and balance the spices.
  • Green Chilies – 2–3, finely chopped – for a fresh and subtle kick.
  • Yogurt – ¼ cup (optional) – makes the haleem creamier and slightly tangy.
  • Ghee or Oil – 3 tbsp – ghee gives a rich taste, while oil makes it lighter.
  • Water or Chicken Stock – 6 cups – stock enhances flavor, water keeps it simple.

Haleem Spice Mix (Masala)

  • Turmeric – ½ tsp
  • Red Chili Powder – 1 tsp
  • Coriander Powder – 1 tsp
  • Garam Masala – 1 tsp
  • Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp
  • Salt – to taste

For Garnishing & Serving

  • Fresh Coriander – 2 tbsp, chopped – adds freshness and color.
  • Lemon – 1, sliced – brightens up the final dish.
  • Optional toppings: fried onions, julienned ginger, and green chilies.

These carefully chosen haleem spices create the traditional aroma, while lentils and wheat give the dish its smooth, comforting texture.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Substitutions & Tips for Best Quality

  1. Chicken Choice:
    • Thigh meat makes haleem richer and juicier.
    • Breast meat gives a leaner and lighter version of haleem.
  2. Lentils & Wheat:
    • Increase lentils for a creamier, smoother texture.
    • Add extra wheat or barley for a thicker, heartier consistency.
  3. Spices:
    • For a mild flavor, reduce chili powder.
    • For spicier haleem, add more green chilies or garam masala.
  4. Ghee or Oil:
    • Use ghee for an authentic, traditional depth of flavor.
    • Use oil for a healthier, lighter version of chicken haleem.
  5. Yogurt (Optional):
    • Adds creaminess and a hint of tang.
    • Can be skipped if you prefer a lighter dish.

How to Make Chicken Haleem (Step-by-Step)

Cooking chicken haleem may sound complicated, but when broken into clear steps, it becomes simple and enjoyable. By preparing ingredients in advance, using the right cooking method, and blending carefully, you can achieve the authentic creamy texture that makes Pakistani haleem so special.

Step 1: Preparation

The preparation stage is very important for smooth cooking and to achieve the perfect haleem texture.

  1. Soak Lentils and Wheat – Wash and soak the lentils and wheat (or barley) in water for at least 30 minutes. This softens them and reduces cooking time.
  2. Prepare Chicken – Clean and cut chicken into medium-sized pieces. Boneless or bone-in can be used depending on your preference.
  3. Chop Vegetables – Slice onions thinly, chop tomatoes, and finely chop green chilies.
  4. Measure Spices – Gather all haleem spices in advance: turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin, and garam masala.

Pro Tip: Doing all this preparation before cooking ensures the process runs smoothly and your haleem cooks evenly without delays.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Step 2: Cooking Process

This is where the flavors develop, and the lentils and chicken come together to form a hearty, filling dish.

  1. Sauté Onions and Spices – Heat ghee or oil in a large pot. Fry onions until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste, cumin seeds, and green chilies. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Chicken – Add chicken pieces and sauté until lightly golden. Sprinkle salt, turmeric, red chili powder, and haleem masala. Stir well so the chicken absorbs the spices.
  3. Add Lentils and Wheat – Mix in the soaked lentils and wheat. Pour in water or chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the lentils are soft and the chicken is fully tender.
  4. Blend for Creamy Texture – Use a hand blender or wooden masher to break down the mixture. This step is what gives haleem its smooth, velvety consistency.
  5. Final Seasoning – Stir in yogurt (optional, for creaminess), sprinkle garam masala, and simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Haleem Cooking Tip: Always cook on low heat during the simmering stage. Slow cooking allows flavors to blend properly and prevents burning at the bottom.

Step 3: Serving and Finishing

Once your Pakistani chicken haleem is ready, serve it hot and garnish it beautifully.

  • Garnish Options: Fresh coriander leaves, fried onions, green chilies, ginger juliennes, and a squeeze of lemon.
  • Serving Suggestions:
    • Haleem with naan or roti (classic pairing)
    • Haleem with plain rice (light and filling)
    • As a one-pot meal on its own for family dinners or Ramadan iftar

This method gives you an authentic one-pot chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style that tastes traditional but fits into modern kitchens. Whether served at Ramadan, a family get-together, or a cozy weekend dinner, it always feels hearty, nourishing, and comforting.

Expert Tips to Make Chicken Haleem Perfect

Cooking Chicken Haleem is an art, and a few smart steps can make the difference between an average dish and a truly memorable one. Below are expert-tested tips that help you achieve the authentic creamy texture, balanced flavors, and rich aroma that this dish is loved for.

1. Cook on Low Heat

Slow cooking is the heart of a traditional chicken haleem recipe. Keeping the pot on low flame allows the lentils, wheat, and chicken to break down naturally, giving that silky-smooth texture. Rushing the process on high heat may leave the grains undercooked and the flavor incomplete.

2. Blend in Small Batches

For the best consistency, always blend the mixture in small portions. This ensures the lentils and wheat grind evenly without leaving lumps. A hand blender works well, but if you use a regular blender, let the mixture cool slightly before blending. This small step makes the haleem creamy and restaurant-quality.

3. Taste Before Final Seasoning

Seasoning is where many home cooks go wrong. Before adding the final spices or garam masala, taste your haleem. This lets you adjust salt, chili, or tanginess as needed. Doing this ensures your haleem flavor is balanced, not too spicy or bland.

4. Garnish at the Right Time

Presentation matters. Always garnish your chicken haleem just before serving. Fresh coriander, crispy fried onions, green chilies, and a squeeze of lemon not only add flavor but also make the dish look inviting. Preparing garnishes ahead of time and adding them at the end keeps them fresh and vibrant.

5. Try the One-Pot Method

If you want convenience without losing taste, use a one-pot chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style. Cooking everything in a single pot allows the flavors to blend naturally and saves washing multiple pans. This also locks in aroma while reducing cooking time.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Variations of Chicken Haleem You Can Try

One of the best things about chicken haleem is its flexibility. While the traditional recipe is loved for its authentic flavor, you can easily adjust it to match your family’s taste or dietary needs. Below are some exciting variations that make haleem even more enjoyable.

1. Spicy Chicken Haleem

If you enjoy bold flavors, try making a spicier version. Add extra green chilies, a pinch of red chili powder, and freshly ground black pepper. This gives the haleem a strong kick while keeping the creamy texture intact. Many home cooks prefer this variation during winter, as it brings extra warmth and depth of flavor.

2. Creamy Chicken Haleem

For a richer and more indulgent taste, add a spoonful of fresh yogurt or a splash of cream toward the end of cooking. This smoothens the texture and enhances the haleem flavor, making it perfect for special dinners. Creamy haleem pairs beautifully with crispy naan or paratha.

3. Vegetarian Haleem

Not everyone eats chicken, but that doesn’t mean they should miss out. You can replace chicken with protein-rich ingredients like tofu, paneer, or soy chunks. Along with lentils and grains, this version offers high haleem nutrition while still delivering a comforting, hearty taste.

4. Slow Cooker Chicken Haleem

For those who love convenience, a slow cooker is a great option. Add all the ingredients into the pot and cook on low heat for 6–8 hours. This method requires little attention yet produces a deep, well-blended flavor. The long cooking time helps bring out the richness of spices while keeping the haleem silky smooth.

What to Serve with Chicken Haleem

Chicken Haleem is a rich, creamy, and hearty dish, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal. Serving suggestions balance flavors, textures, and presentation, making your homemade Pakistani haleem a complete dining experience.

Perfect Side Options

  • Naan or Roti – Soft, warm naan or roti complements the creamy texture of haleem perfectly. The mild bread soaks up the flavorful stew, making every bite satisfying.
  • Steamed Rice – Plain, fluffy rice is a simple yet effective pairing. It balances the richness of chicken haleem and makes the meal filling without being heavy.
  • Lentils – A side of plain or lightly spiced lentils adds extra fiber and nutrition while enhancing the authentic haleem experience.
  • Fresh Salad or Raita – Crisp vegetables or cooling yogurt-based raita provide freshness and a tangy contrast. This combination enhances flavor and prevents the meal from feeling too heavy.

Serving Occasions

These side dishes make chicken haleem suitable for various occasions:

  • Family Meals – A wholesome one-pot dinner everyone can enjoy.
  • Festive Gatherings – Impress guests with traditional flavors paired with complementary sides.
  • Ramadan Specials – Perfect for iftar, offering nourishment, protein, and energy for long fasting hours.

Pro Tip: Serve haleem hot with garnishes like fried onions, fresh coriander, and a squeeze of lemon for added aroma and visual appeal. Pairing with these sides ensures your dish is balanced, flavorful, and visually inviting.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Proper storage and reheating are essential to preserve the creamy texture, rich flavor, and nutritional value of homemade chicken haleem Pakistani style. Following these simple tips ensures your haleem tastes fresh even after a few days.

Refrigeration

  • Store cooked chicken haleem in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
  • It will stay fresh for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.
  • Always cool the haleem to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain quality.

Freezing

  • For longer storage, place the haleem in freezer-safe containers.
  • Properly stored, it can last up to 2 weeks.
  • Freeze in portions so you can reheat only what you need, preventing repeated thawing.

Reheating

  • Stovetop Method: Heat the haleem slowly on low flame. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and add a little water or stock if the mixture is too thick.
  • Microwave Method: Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
  • Check seasoning after reheating and adjust if necessary.

Pro Tip: Always garnish freshly after reheating with fried onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon to restore aroma and flavor. This keeps your reheated haleem tasting almost as fresh as when first cooked.

Health & Nutrition Benefits

Chicken haleem is not only a flavorful comfort food but also a nutritionally rich dish that supports overall health and energy. Because it combines chicken, lentils, wheat, and a variety of spices, it delivers both taste and wellness in every bowl. Here are the main health benefits explained in detail:

1. High in Protein

The chicken used in haleem makes it a protein-rich meal. Protein is vital for muscle growth, repair, and strength, making haleem an excellent choice for people of all ages. Including a protein-packed meal like chicken haleem recipe in your diet can also help you feel fuller for longer.

2. Rich in Dietary Fiber

The lentils and grains in haleem provide a good amount of fiber, which helps with digestion, gut health, and stable energy release. Fiber keeps you satisfied, supports healthy metabolism, and balances blood sugar levels, making haleem with lentils both tasty and beneficial.

3. Energy-Boosting Meal

Haleem is often called a power food because it is slow-cooked with wheat, barley, lentils, and meat. This unique mix provides long-lasting energy, which is why it is perfect as a healthy chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style for iftar during Ramadan or on days when you need strength and stamina.

4. Balanced & Low in Fat (if cooked wisely)

While haleem can be rich and hearty, you can keep it low in fat by using minimal ghee or oil. This makes the dish lighter without compromising taste. Choosing the homemade chicken haleem Pakistani style option gives you control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier version compared to store-bought or restaurant servings.

5. Nutrient-Packed Spices

The spices in haleem are more than just flavor enhancers. Ingredients like turmeric, cumin, ginger, and garlic provide antioxidants and have natural healing properties. These spices boost immunity, improve digestion, and make the haleem spices a source of both taste and wellness.

6. A Wholesome Meal for Every Occasion

Because it combines protein, fiber, carbs, and essential nutrients, haleem is considered a complete one-pot meal. It is nourishing, satisfying, and ideal for lunch, dinner, or haleem for Ramadan when your body needs balanced nutrition after fasting.

Pro Tip: To get the best health benefits, cook haleem at home using fresh chicken, whole lentils, and moderate oil. Garnish with lemon juice, coriander, and fried onions to add extra flavor while still keeping it light.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

FAQs about Chicken Haleem

When it comes to making or serving chicken haleem, home cooks often have common questions. Here are detailed answers that will help you prepare this dish confidently while also ensuring it suits your taste and lifestyle.

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can prepare haleem with chicken breast, but many food lovers prefer chicken thighs because they bring out a richer and juicier flavor. Thighs have a little more fat and tenderness, which blends beautifully with the grains and lentils in haleem. However, if you want a lighter and leaner version, using chicken breast in your chicken haleem recipe is perfectly fine.

Q2: How long does it take to cook chicken haleem?

Cooking haleem is a slow process, and that is what gives it its authentic texture. On average, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to prepare when following a traditional haleem cooking method. This includes soaking the lentils and grains, boiling them, slow-cooking the chicken, and finally blending everything together. The longer cooking time ensures the grains break down properly, giving haleem its creamy and smooth consistency.

Q3: Can I make haleem spicy?

Yes, haleem can be adjusted to suit your spice level. If you enjoy more heat, add extra green chilies or red chili powder during cooking. Some people also sprinkle freshly ground black pepper or garam masala before serving for an extra kick. This flexibility is what makes haleem variations so exciting—you can adjust flavors while still keeping the dish authentic.

Q4: Can chicken haleem be frozen?

Yes, haleem freezes very well. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to two weeks. When reheating, thaw it first and warm gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if it has thickened too much. This makes it an excellent one-pot chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style that you can prepare ahead of time and enjoy later without losing taste or nutrition.

Q5: Can I make a vegetarian version of haleem?

Absolutely. To make a vegetarian haleem, you can replace the chicken with tofu, paneer, or even soya chunks. These options still provide protein while keeping the texture hearty and satisfying. The lentils and grains themselves already offer plenty of nutrition, so this haleem nutrition twist is perfect for vegetarians who want to enjoy the same comfort and richness without meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though chicken haleem is one of the most loved comfort foods, many home cooks end up making small mistakes that affect its taste and texture. To help you achieve that perfectly smooth and flavorful haleem, here are the most common errors to watch out for—and how to avoid them.

1. Not Soaking Lentils or Wheat Properly

One of the most important steps in chicken haleem preparation is soaking the lentils, barley, and wheat before cooking. Skipping or shortening this step makes the grains harder to break down, resulting in a rough texture instead of the creamy, silky finish haleem is known for. Always soak them for a few hours (or overnight if possible) to save cooking time and achieve the right consistency.

2. Using Too Much Water

The haleem texture depends heavily on the amount of water you add. If you pour too much, the dish becomes watery and loses its thickness. If you add too little, it will stick and burn at the bottom of the pot. The key is to add water slowly in stages, stirring as it cooks, until you reach that rich, porridge-like consistency.

3. Overcooking the Chicken Before Lentils Soften

Some cooks boil chicken for too long in the beginning, which makes it dry and stringy by the time the lentils are ready. Remember that haleem is a slow-cooked dish, and the chicken should be cooked alongside the grains so that flavors blend evenly. Shredding the chicken at the right stage gives the haleem a balanced taste and smooth texture.

4. Skipping or Reducing Spices

Haleem is famous for its unique blend of haleem spices, which give it a warm, deep flavor. Missing out on key spices like garam masala, cumin, or coriander can make the dish taste plain and less authentic. Always prepare a proper spice mix or use freshly ground spices for best results. Adding fried onions and fresh herbs at the end also elevates the flavor.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Bonus Chef Tip

If you want your chicken haleem to taste like it came straight from a traditional kitchen, there are two simple but powerful tricks every expert chef swears by. These steps may look small, but they make a huge difference in flavor and texture.

1. Slow-Cook on Low Heat

Haleem is not a dish that should be rushed. The true secret lies in slow cooking on low heat. When you let the lentils, wheat, and chicken simmer gently for a longer time, the ingredients break down naturally and blend into each other. This method creates a smooth, creamy consistency and develops layers of flavor that fast cooking can never achieve. If you want authentic taste, keep patience—haleem loves time.

2. Garnish Smartly for Extra Flavor

The garnish is not just decoration; it is what completes the dish. A generous topping of golden fried onions adds sweetness and depth, while fresh coriander and green chilies give brightness and freshness. But here’s a chef-level secret: sprinkle a tiny pinch of nutmeg right before serving. This warm spice enhances the aroma and gives your haleem an unforgettable, restaurant-style flavor that will leave your family and guests amazed.

3. Serve the Right Way

Don’t forget that haleem is best enjoyed hot. Serve it in deep bowls so it stays warm longer. Add a side of lemon wedges for freshness, and offer naan or paratha for dipping. This thoughtful presentation makes your haleem experience richer and more satisfying.

Exploring new dishes is one of the best parts of cooking. If you enjoyed making chicken haleem, then you will love these carefully chosen recipes. Each of them is a classic in its own way and pairs beautifully with the warm, comforting taste of haleem. They also represent the heart of Pakistani cooking, where spices, flavors, and tradition come together to create unforgettable meals.

1. [Chicken Korma Recipe]

Chicken Korma is a rich and flavorful curry made with chicken, yogurt, and aromatic spices. The slow-cooked gravy is creamy, slightly nutty, and full of depth. It is the perfect dish to serve when you want a meal that feels both festive and comforting. Just like haleem, korma brings family and friends together around the table.

2. [Keema Paratha Recipe] – Perfect for Family Meals

Keema Paratha is a stuffed flatbread filled with spiced minced meat. It is crispy on the outside and juicy inside, making it a favorite for family dinners or weekend brunches. Pairing keema paratha with a small serving of haleem creates a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

3. [Pakistani Chicken Biryani Recipe] – A True Classic of Pakistani Cuisine

No list of Pakistani dishes is complete without biryani. Pakistani Chicken Biryani is fragrant, colorful, and bursting with flavor. Each grain of rice carries the aroma of whole spices, saffron, and marinated chicken. Serving biryani alongside haleem at a gathering is a sure way to impress your guests and give them a full taste of authentic Pakistani cuisine.

By trying these recipes along with your chicken haleem, you create a rich food experience that feels both traditional and festive. Each dish complements the other and gives you new ideas for family meals, dinner parties, or special occasions.

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Final Thoughts

  • Rich in Flavor & Tradition: This Classic Chicken Haleem Pakistani Style is creamy, filling, and deeply flavorful. It carries the warmth of tradition, making it perfect for Ramadan specials, family dinners, or a comforting weekend meal.
  • One-Pot Simplicity: As a one-pot chicken haleem recipe Pakistani style, it saves time and effort while still delivering authentic taste. You get a balanced dish with grains, lentils, chicken, and spices all in one bowl.
  • Homemade Comfort: Cooking chicken haleem Pakistani style at home gives you full control over ingredients, spice levels, and texture. The slow-cooked method ensures a rich, creamy consistency that tastes better than restaurant versions.
  • Perfect Garnish & Serving: Top it with fried onions, fresh coriander, green chilies, and lemon juice for a restaurant-style finish. These simple additions bring out the true flavor and aroma of authentic haleem.
  • Family-Friendly Dish: Whether you are cooking for a large gathering or a small family meal, haleem is versatile, filling, and loved by all age groups. It is a dish that brings everyone together at the table.
  • Your Turn to Try: Make this recipe today and enjoy the comfort of homemade haleem. If you loved it, comment below and share your experience. Your feedback helps us bring more authentic Pakistani chicken haleem recipes straight to your kitchen.
Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style

This authentic and flavorful Chicken Haleem is a traditional Pakistani dish made with chicken, wheat, lentils, and aromatic spices. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions like Ramadan and Iftar.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Pakistani, South Asian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Haleem Base
  • 500 g chicken boneless, shredded
  • ½ cup wheat soaked overnight
  • ½ cup barley soaked overnight
  • ¼ cup chana dal split chickpeas
  • ¼ cup masoor dal red lentils
  • ¼ cup moong dal yellow lentils
  • ¼ cup toor dal pigeon peas
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes chopped
  • 3–4 green chilies chopped
  • 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
For the Haleem Masala
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1 tbsp cumin powder
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • ½ tsp cinnamon powder
  • ½ tsp cardamom powder
  • Salt to taste
For Garnishing
  • Fresh coriander chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Fried onions
  • Julienned ginger
  • Green chilies sliced

Equipment

  • Large cooking pot For simmering Haleem
  • Pressure cooker To cook wheat and lentils faster
  • Wooden spoon For mixing and stirring continuously
  • Blender/Hand masher For smooth haleem texture

Method
 

Step 1 – Preparation
  1. Wash and soak wheat, barley, and all lentils overnight.
  2. Boil them until soft using a pressure cooker or large pot.
  3. Shred the cooked chicken and keep aside.
Step 2 – Cooking the Haleem
  1. Heat oil in a pot and fry onions until golden.
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, and yogurt. Cook until the mixture forms a smooth masala.
  3. Mix in the shredded chicken and all Haleem spices.
  4. Add the cooked grains and lentils into the pot.
  5. Stir well and cook on low flame for 45–60 minutes. Keep stirring and mashing for smooth Haleem texture.
Step 3 – Serving & Garnishing
  1. Once Haleem reaches a thick, creamy consistency, remove from heat.
    Easy Chicken Haleem Recipe Pakistani Style
  2. Garnish with fried onions, lemon wedges, coriander, and ginger slices.
  3. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Notes

  • Soak wheat, barley, and lentils overnight. This makes the Haleem soft and creamy.
  • Use chicken with bones for more flavor. Use boneless chicken if you want it easy to shred.
  • If you don’t have all types of lentils, use only wheat and 2–3 lentils. It will still taste good.
  • Stir often while cooking. This stops the Haleem from burning at the bottom.
  • Add water little by little. Haleem should be thick and smooth, not too thin.
  • For restaurant-style taste, fry onions in ghee and pour them on top before serving.
  • Leftover Haleem becomes thick. Add warm water or stock when reheating.
  • Best eaten with naan, paratha, or rice. You can also enjoy it plain with lemon and fried onions.

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