Are you craving a delicious, yet easy, weeknight meal? Look no further! This recipe for Indian-spiced chicken legs offers a fantastic balance of flavor and simplicity. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Forget complicated recipes; this is one of those easy recipes that delivers big on taste. Get ready for a flavorful adventure!
Ingredients:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures the chicken browns beautifully and retains its flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a delicious base for your flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Bloom the Spices
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and garam masala to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This process, called "blooming," releases the full aromatic potential of the spices, enriching the overall taste of your dish.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Tomatoes
Add the seasoned chicken legs to the pot. Brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Check the chicken's internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving. Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dish. This quick dinner idea is perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: If you have more than 8 chicken legs, consider cooking them in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken legs: This results in more flavorful and juicy chicken.
- Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the chicken, as this can make it tough.
Delicious Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or peas for a heartier meal. Add them along with the tomatoes.
- Use different spices: Experiment with other Indian spices like paprika, cardamom, or cloves to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy way to enjoy chicken legs. It's a perfect example of how easy recipes can be both flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this simple yet impressive dish, and remember to share your culinary creations with us!