A menu is more than just a list of dishes and prices; it is a map of a restaurant’s soul. When you look at the Baba Chicken menu, you aren’t just seeing options for dinner; you are seeing over 60 years of culinary evolution. From the streets of Ludhiana to the neighborhoods of Canada, every item on this menu has a story.
In this guide, we will walk you through the Baba Chicken menu, highlighting the hidden gems, the crowd favorites, and the chef’s specials that make this establishment a legend.
The Philosophy Behind the Menu
The core philosophy of the Baba Chicken menu is “Authenticity without Compromise.” Many Indian restaurants in the West adapt their menus to suit local tastes, often sweetening curries or toning down the heat. Baba Chicken refuses to do this. The menu is designed to replicate the exact flavor profiles found in their original Indian outlets.
The menu is divided into several key sections: Appetizers (Veg and Non-Veg), Main Course Curries, Breads (Naan/Roti), and Rice/Biryanis. Let’s break them down.
Appetizers: The Perfect Start
The appetizer section of the Baba Chicken menu is heavy on “Tandoori” items. This is where the restaurant’s expertise in clay oven cooking shines.
- Chicken Malai Tikka: This is a fan favorite for those who prefer milder heat. “Malai” means cream, and these boneless chicken chunks are marinated in a rich cashew and cream paste before being gently grilled. The result is melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Fish Pakora: A staple in Punjabi cuisine, the fish pakora here is battered in a spiced gram flour mix and deep-fried to golden perfection. It’s crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside, and served with a mint chutney that cuts through the richness.
- Tandoori Soya Chaap: A treat for vegetarians. Soya Chaap is a meat substitute made from soybeans that mimics the texture of chicken. Marinated in tandoori spices and grilled, it offers a smoky, savory bite that rivals any meat dish.
- Spinach Corn Rolls: As mentioned in our previous posts, this is a signature item. If you see this on the Baba Chicken menu, order it immediately. It’s a unique creation of the brand that you won’t easily find elsewhere.
The Curries: Rich, Robust, and Royal
The main course section is where the heavy hitters live. The curries at Baba Chicken are known for their thick, flavorful gravies.
- Baba Butter Chicken: The crown jewel of the Baba Chicken menu. Unlike the sweet, orange versions found in food courts, this is a complex, savory gravy. It comes in different variations, including “Bone-in” (for the traditionalists who believe the bone adds flavor) and “Boneless” (for easy eating).
- Rara Chicken/Goat: This is a dish for true meat lovers. It involves pieces of meat cooked in a gravy that is also made of minced meat (keema). It’s a double dose of protein and flavor, resulting in a thick, textured curry that clings beautifully to naan.
- Dal Makhani: No North Indian menu is complete without black lentils. Cooked overnight on a slow fire with butter and cream, the Dal Makhani here is dark, creamy, and deeply comforting.
- Lemon Paneer: A zesty twist on the usual paneer dishes. Instead of a heavy tomato cream sauce, this dish features a tangy lemon-based gravy that is refreshing and unique.
Breads and Rice: The Essential Vehicles
You cannot enjoy the curries on the Baba Chicken menu without the proper vessels.
- Butter Naan & Garlic Naan: Fluffy, charred in the tandoor, and brushed generously with butter. They are perfect for scooping up the thick gravies.
- Lachha Parantha: A layered whole wheat bread that is crispy and flaky.
- Chicken/Mutton Biryani: While Baba Chicken is famous for curries, their biryani is a hidden gem. It’s prepared “Dum” style, where meat and rice are slow-cooked together in a sealed pot to lock in the aroma.
Dietary Accommodations
The Baba Chicken menu is surprisingly accommodating.
- Vegetarian: A massive portion of the menu is dedicated to vegetarian options, from Shahi Paneer to Mushroom Chilli.
- Spice Levels: Because everything is cooked fresh, you can often request adjustments to spice levels, though the “standard” medium heat is recommended for the most authentic experience.
Navigating the Menu for the First Time
If you are a first-timer staring at the Baba Chicken menu, here is a recommended order for two people:
- Starter: Spinach Corn Roll (Veg) and Chicken Tikka (Non-Veg).
- Mains: One order of Butter Chicken and one order of Dal Makhani.
- Breads: 2 Garlic Naans and 1 Lachha Parantha.
- Drink: Salted Lassi or a cold Soda to wash it down.
Conclusion
The Baba Chicken menu is a testament to the richness of Punjabi cuisine. It doesn’t rely on gimmicks; it relies on time-tested recipes and quality ingredients. Whether you are ordering takeout for a movie night or dining in for a celebration, the menu offers something that feels like a warm hug from history.
Explore the full menu on their website or visit them in person to taste why this menu has sustained a brand for over half a century.