Chicken And Curd Together

Question

I’ve been experimenting with different recipes, and I recently wondered: can you eat chicken and curd together? I’ve seen dishes like chicken marinated in yogurt, but I’ve also heard that combining certain foods can cause digestive problems according to Ayurveda.

I often make chicken curry and like to pair it with curd or raita on the side, especially to balance the spices. But if chicken and curd together are a bad combination, should I stop doing this? Does Ayurveda consider this a case of incompatible foods, or is it safe in small amounts?

I’ve also heard that curd is cooling, while chicken is considered heating. If chicken and curd together create opposite effects in the body, does that mean they interfere with digestion or create toxins? Or is this only a problem if eaten in excess?

Another question I have is about timing. If chicken and curd together isn’t recommended, does it make a difference if I eat them hours apart? For example, can I have curd for lunch and chicken for dinner, or should they be avoided on the same day entirely?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, food combinations are important for maintaining proper digestion and balance, and certain combinations, like chicken and curd, can be considered incompatible. Chicken is a heavy, heating food, while curd (yogurt) is cooling and can have a heavier, more mucus-producing effect, especially if consumed in large quantities. This combination may disturb the digestive fire (agni) and lead to sluggish digestion, bloating, or the formation of toxins (ama), particularly if eaten in excess or too frequently. However, if consumed in moderation and with proper digestive support (such as using warming spices), it may not cause issues for everyone. The timing does play a role—eating them hours apart (for example, having chicken for lunch and curd for dinner) or consuming them on separate days can reduce the likelihood of digestive disturbance. If you're sensitive to this combination, it may be best to either avoid it or ensure that the chicken is well-spiced and cooked in a way that supports digestion, while also avoiding too much curd at the same meal.

Chicken And Curd Together - #6293

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