Are you craving a delicious and authentic Desi-style chicken dish but short on time? Look no further! This recipe delivers tender, juicy boneless chicken bursting with aromatic spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal. It's a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe that's easily adaptable to your spice preferences. Get ready for a flavor fiesta in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water or chicken broth
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Marinating the Chicken (Prep Time: 15 minutes):
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with the minced garlic, ginger, green chili, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, black pepper, salt, and half of the chopped cilantro.
- Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Cooking the Chicken (Cook Time: 25-30 minutes):
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. This step helps to seal in the juices and develop a rich flavor.
- Pour in the water or chicken broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Check for doneness by piercing a piece with a fork; the juices should run clear.
- Stir in the remaining chopped cilantro and cook for another minute.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot with rice, naan bread, roti, or your favorite side dish. A dollop of plain yogurt or raita adds a cooling contrast to the spicy chicken. This easy recipe makes a delightful healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Desi Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to brown evenly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor: Marinating for longer periods, even overnight, results in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Use bone-in chicken: For a richer, more intense flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Tomato-based Chicken: Add 1 cup of chopped tomatoes along with the onions for a tangy twist.
- Vegetable Chicken: Include your favorite vegetables like potatoes, peas, or carrots during the simmering process.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
This simple and quick Desi boneless chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious, healthy, and flavorful dish the whole family will love. Enjoy your homemade cooking experience!