Chicken Madras with Rice

Chicken Madras with Rice Recipe - Authentic Indian Cuisine

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Madras is a popular Indian dish known for its bold and spicy flavors. This recipe combines tender chicken with a flavorful curry sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. It's a perfect dish for those who love a little heat in their meals.

History

Chicken Madras is said to have originated in the southern Indian city of Madras, now known as Chennai. The dish is a fusion of traditional Indian spices and flavors with influences from British colonial cuisine. It has since become a staple in Indian restaurants around the world.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) skinned, boned chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
0.25 to 0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp butter or margarine
1.5 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp curry powder
1.5 cup chicken broth
0.25 cup catsup
0.25 cup orange marmalade
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 large onion, sliced
1 large green pepper, cut into 1 inch squares
1 cup sliced celery, cut into 1 inch pieces
3 cup hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Melt the butter in a large skillet.
Add the chicken and cook over medium-high heat, stirring, until the chicken turns white, about 5 minutes.
Blend the cornstarch, curry powder, broth, ketchup, marmalade, and lemon juice. Pour the mixture over the chicken and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.
Add the onion, green pepper, and celery. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes. The vegetables should be tender-crisp and the chicken should have a rich glaze.
Serve over hot rice.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Add diced tomatoes or coconut milk for a creamier sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavors.

- Cooking the chicken until it turns white ensures that it is cooked through before adding the sauce.

- Stir the sauce often while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

- For a spicier dish, add more curry powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

- Serve with naan bread or papadums on the side for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the chicken ensures that it cooks quickly and stays tender.

- Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together for a rich and aromatic dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter or ghee instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Swap the orange marmalade for mango chutney for a different twist.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and add the cooked chicken and vegetables before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Madras in a large serving bowl with the rice on the side for a colorful and inviting presentation. - Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair with a refreshing cucumber raita or a side of pickled vegetables to balance out the heat of the curry.

- Serve with a cold lassi or mango lassi for a cooling beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 400 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Rice: 45g per serving

- Onion: 10g per serving

- Green pepper: 5g per serving

- Celery: 3g per serving

Fats

- Margarine: 8g per serving

Proteins

- Chicken: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 20% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains gluten (from the cornstarch) and soy (from the margarine)

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and vitamin C, but it is high in carbohydrates and fats. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Chicken Madras with Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a spicy curry sauce. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chicken Madras with Rice. It was given to me by an old friend who had traveled to India and learned the traditional methods of cooking from locals. The exotic flavors and spices used in Indian cuisine always fascinated me, and I couldn't wait to try my hand at creating this dish in my own kitchen.

I carefully studied the recipe, taking note of each ingredient and step involved in making the Chicken Madras with Rice. The list was long and the process seemed complex, but I was determined to master it. I gathered all the necessary spices - cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala - and made sure I had fresh chicken, tomatoes, and onions on hand.

As I began to cook, I could feel the warmth of the spices filling the air. The aroma was intoxicating, and I knew I was on the right track. I sautéed the onions and garlic until they were soft and fragrant, then added the chicken and let it brown on all sides. Next, I sprinkled in the spices, watching as they bloomed and released their flavors.

I added the tomatoes and let the mixture simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. The scent of the Chicken Madras with Rice was now permeating the entire house, drawing my family into the kitchen with eager anticipation. I could see the excitement in their eyes as they watched me work my magic.

Finally, it was time to add the rice. I carefully measured out the grains and added them to the pot, stirring gently to coat them in the rich, savory sauce. I let the rice cook until it was tender and fluffy, absorbing all the flavors of the dish.

When the Chicken Madras with Rice was finally ready, I plated it up and garnished it with fresh cilantro. The colors were vibrant, the aroma was irresistible, and I knew I had created something truly special. As my family sat down to eat, I watched with pride as they took their first bites, savoring the complex flavors and textures of the dish.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in our household, a dish that would be passed down through generations. And as I sat at the table, surrounded by my loved ones, I felt grateful for the gift of cooking and the joy it brings to all who partake in it.

In the years that followed, I continued to perfect my recipe for Chicken Madras with Rice, tweaking it here and there to suit our tastes. I shared it with friends and neighbors, who were always amazed at the depth of flavor and complexity of the dish.

And now, as I sit down to write this story, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for those early days of discovery and wonder. Cooking has always been my passion, my way of expressing love and creativity, and I am grateful for all the recipes and lessons I have learned along the way.

So here's to the Chicken Madras with Rice - a dish that has brought joy and warmth to my family for years, and will continue to do so for many more to come. And to all the recipes out there waiting to be discovered and shared, may they bring as much happiness and fulfillment as this one has brought to me.