Chicken Masala

Chicken Masala Recipe from Pakistan - A Spicy Delight

Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Masala is a popular Indian dish that is known for its rich and flavorful spices. This dish is a favorite among many due to its delicious taste and aromatic aroma. It is a perfect dish to serve for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Chicken Masala has its roots in Indian cuisine, where spices are used abundantly to create flavorful dishes. The combination of spices used in this dish has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe. Chicken Masala has become a staple in Indian households and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) chicken fillets, cut into 0.5 inch (1 cm) cubes
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 levelled teaspoon chilli powder
0.5 tsp ginger powder
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 levelled teaspoon salt
0.25 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garam Masalah
1 heaped teaspoon coriander powder
6 tbsp oil, ghee or melted butter
0.5 tin of chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp finely chopped coriander leaves

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a cooking pan and fry the chopped onion until it turns slightly brown. Add chili powder, ginger powder, salt, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Fry the spices for two minutes. Then, add chopped tomatoes and continue stirring for ten minutes or until the butter separates from the spices. Next, add the chicken cubes and stir them in the masala until they are nicely coated.
Add 0.5 cups of water and let the chicken cook on low heat for fifteen minutes. Remove the lid, stir the chicken, and cook for an additional ten minutes. When the butter starts to separate, add 0.25 cups of water, sprinkle garam masala, and thinly chop coriander leaves. Cover the pan and cook for five to six minutes.

Variations

Add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or potatoes to make it a more hearty dish.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamy texture.
Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken cubes in the spices for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Use fresh spices for the best flavor. Toasting the spices before adding them to the dish can enhance their aroma.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference. You can also add green chilies for an extra kick.

- Be patient when cooking the chicken. Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Masala can be served with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti. It pairs well with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the chicken allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

- Stirring the chicken in the masala ensures that it is evenly coated with the spices.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable oil instead of butter for a lighter version.

- Substitute fresh tomatoes for canned tomatoes if preferred.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the spices ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh coriander leaves or a dollop of yogurt for a pop of color. - Serve the Chicken Masala in a traditional Indian serving dish for an authentic touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Masala with a side of basmati rice and a refreshing mango lassi for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

- Reheat the Chicken Masala in a pan on low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 8g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 4g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter)

Summary

Chicken Masala is a high-protein dish that is rich in flavor and essential nutrients. It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious meal option.

Summary

Chicken Masala is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for any occasion. With the right combination of spices and cooking techniques, you can create a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this classic Indian dish with your favorite sides for a satisfying and memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Chicken Masala like it was yesterday. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Patel, who was known for her exquisite Indian cuisine. As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, the aroma of exotic spices filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Mrs. Patel greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a cup of chai as we caught up on each other's lives. As we chatted, she began to prepare dinner, and I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, marinated meat, and blended spices together to create a symphony of flavors.

"Would you like to learn how to make Chicken Masala?" Mrs. Patel asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement. I eagerly nodded, thrilled at the opportunity to learn one of her coveted recipes.

She handed me a notebook and a pen, instructing me to write down every step as she demonstrated the process. I watched intently as she sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger in ghee until they were golden brown, releasing a heavenly aroma that made my mouth water.

Next, she added a blend of spices - turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder - each carefully measured to create the perfect balance of flavors. The spices sizzled and danced in the pan, infusing the air with their pungent fragrance.

As the masala cooked, Mrs. Patel added diced tomatoes and a splash of water, creating a rich, velvety sauce that coated the chicken pieces she had marinated earlier. The chicken simmered in the sauce, absorbing the flavors and becoming tender and succulent.

Finally, she sprinkled freshly chopped cilantro over the dish, adding a burst of freshness and color. The Chicken Masala was ready, and my mouth watered in anticipation as Mrs. Patel served it over steaming basmati rice.

I took my first bite, and my taste buds exploded with a symphony of flavors - the warmth of the spices, the tanginess of the tomatoes, and the richness of the ghee all combined to create a dish that was truly unforgettable.

From that moment on, Chicken Masala became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening. Each time I cooked it, I remembered Mrs. Patel's patient guidance and the joy of learning something new from a dear friend.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different spice blends, adding vegetables like bell peppers and peas, and even trying out different cooking methods like grilling or baking. But no matter how I prepare it, the essence of Mrs. Patel's original recipe remains, a testament to the power of friendship, tradition, and good food.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for Chicken Masala to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will cherish it as much as I do - not just for its delicious flavors, but for the memories and stories that it holds. Cooking is more than just following a set of instructions; it is a way to connect with others, to share a part of ourselves, and to create lasting memories that will be cherished for generations to come. And for that, I am truly grateful.