Are you craving a delicious, restaurant-quality meal but short on time? Look no further! This Kali Mirch Chicken recipe is your answer. This easy recipe delivers a burst of flavor thanks to the generous use of black peppercorns, creating a rich and aromatic dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably flavorful homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-inch ginger piece, finely grated
- 4-5 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tbsp black peppercorns, coarsely crushed
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water or chicken broth
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tbsp of salt, half of the crushed black peppercorns, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and ensures tender chicken.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the grated ginger and green chilies and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the remaining crushed black peppercorns to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds, allowing the peppercorns to release their aromatic oils. This step is crucial for developing the characteristic flavor of Kali Mirch Chicken.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in 1 cup of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Kali Mirch Chicken:
- For extra flavor, use a mix of black and white peppercorns.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or yogurt at the end of cooking.
- If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce the number of green chilies or use milder chilies.
Variations:
- Kali Mirch Chicken with Potatoes: Add 2 medium-sized potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes, along with the chicken.
- Creamy Kali Mirch Chicken: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Kali Mirch Chicken with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots along with the potatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size. However, a typical serving provides a good source of protein and a moderate amount of carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This Kali Mirch Chicken recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that is both easy and delicious. It's a quick dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!