Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, quick, and incredibly satisfying? Then look no further! This green chili chicken recipe is your answer. It's a burst of fresh, spicy goodness that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. This easy recipe delivers a delicious dish that's surprisingly healthy and customizable to your spice preference. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lime juice (optional, for a tangy finish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with 1/2 the chopped green chilies, 1/2 the grated ginger, 1/2 the minced garlic, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, salt, and 1 tablespoon of oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors fully, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the remaining oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the remaining green chilies, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of the dish's incredible aroma.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to break up any large chunks of chicken to ensure even cooking.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly. Add the garam masala and salt to taste. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice (optional). Serve hot with cooked rice or naan bread. The vibrant green color and aromatic spices will make this dish a visual and culinary delight.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Chili Chicken:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your preference. For a milder dish, use fewer chilies. For an extra kick, add more!
- Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but longer is even better! Overnight marination enhances the flavor significantly.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure you don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. This helps to achieve a good sear and prevents steaming. Cook in batches if necessary.
Variations:
- Vegetable Green Chili: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or potatoes for a more substantial meal.
- Creamy Green Chili Chicken: Stir in a dollop of cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Green Chili Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra fiery kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This green chili chicken recipe is a perfect example of how quick and easy homemade cooking can be. It's a healthy, delicious, and flavorful dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!