Chkmeruli with Creamy Garlic Sauce and Sulguni Cheese

Chkmeruli — The Creamy Garlic Legend of Georgian Cuisine

Georgian cuisine is famous for dishes where simple ingredients shine at their fullest. Chkmeruli is exactly that kind of dish. Originating from the Racha region, it is considered one of the most aromatic chicken dishes in Georgia.

The main feature of chkmeruli is its sauce. Thick, creamy, and loaded with garlic, the sauce becomes mellow, slightly sweet, and deeply flavorful as it simmers. It’s this sauce that makes the dish instantly recognizable and beloved by both locals and visitors alike.

Traditionally, chkmeruli is served in the same skillet it was cooked in. The dish sizzles as it arrives, and the aroma of garlic and spices instantly fills the room. In Georgia, it is eaten slowly, always with lavash or shoti bread, dipping into the sauce until the very last drop.

Chkmeruli is not festive or restaurant food — it’s genuine home cooking. It’s made for family, friends, and cozy evenings around a big table. That’s why it feels so warm and “alive.”

Today, chkmeruli is often adapted: cheese is added, cream or sour cream is used, and spice ratios are adjusted. But the essence remains — juicy chicken and plenty of flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for an everyday lunch or a special evening when you crave something truly delicious.

Chkmeruli is a perfect example of how Georgian cuisine transforms simple ingredients into a culinary experience full of emotion.