Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander

Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander Recipe from Sri Lanka

Region / culture: Sri Lanka | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the zesty taste of lemon with the earthy freshness of coriander. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold and vibrant flavors in their meals.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Indian cuisine, where the combination of lemon and coriander is commonly used to add brightness and depth to dishes. The use of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices in this recipe pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of Indian cooking.

Ingredients

2 1" cubes fresh ginger, peeled and coarsely chopped
4 tbsp water
6 tbsp vegetable oil
2.5 lb (1.13 kg) chicken parts, skinned
5 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
3 cup Fresh coriander (without roots and lower stems), very finely chopped (about 200 g)
0.5 Fresh, hot green chilli, very finely chopped, up to 1
0.25 tsp cayenne
2 tsp Ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
0.5 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp salt
0.67 cup water
2 tbsp lemon juice

How to prepare

Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a wide, heavy pot over medium-high heat.
Pound 6 kip filets to flatten the thicker part.
Place the ginger and 4 tbsp of water into an electric blender.
Blend until a paste-like consistency is achieved.
Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and brown them on both sides. Remove the chicken pieces and set them aside.
Add the garlic to the same hot oil and cook until it turns a medium brown color.
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the paste from the blender.
Stir and fry for a minute, then add fresh coriander, green chile, cayenne, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and salt.
Stir and cook for a minute, then return the chicken pieces to the pot along with any accumulated liquid from the bowl.
Add 0.67 cup of water and lemon juice. Stir and bring to a boil.
Cover the pot tightly, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes.
Turn the chicken pieces over, cover again, and cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
If the sauce is too thin, uncover the pot and boil it over slightly higher heat to reduce.
Serve with spiced basmati rice.
NOTES: This dish is extremely delicious and perfect for entertaining. It requires minimal attention during the last half hour of cooking.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or paneer and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the chicken pieces before adding them back to the pot to ensure a crispy and flavorful exterior.

- Adjust the amount of green chili according to your spice preference. You can also remove the seeds to reduce the heat level.

- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving to enhance the dish's aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread for a complete meal.

- Pair with a side of cucumber raita or mint chutney to balance out the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is to cook the chicken low and slow to allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh coriander is not available, you can use dried coriander leaves or parsley as a substitute.

- You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken parts for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the ginger paste and spices ahead of time to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves and a wedge of lemon for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

5g per serving

Fats

15g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium due to the use of fresh coriander and lemon juice.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and may not be suitable for individuals with garlic allergies.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander is a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for a special dinner or entertaining guests. With its bold flavors and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her home in the countryside. Maria was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest creations.

As soon as I walked into Maria's kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh herbs and spices. I could see Maria bustling around the stove, stirring pots and pans with a look of concentration on her face. I knew she was in the midst of preparing something special, and I couldn't wait to find out what it was.

"Hello, my dear friend!" Maria exclaimed, turning to greet me with a warm smile. "I'm so glad you could come over today. I have a new recipe I want to share with you."

Maria handed me a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade and motioned for me to take a seat at the kitchen table. As I sipped on the cool, tangy drink, Maria began to tell me the story behind the recipe she was about to show me.

"I learned this recipe for Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander from my grandmother," Maria explained. "She was an amazing cook and taught me everything I know about creating delicious meals with simple, fresh ingredients."

Maria's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she recounted memories of her grandmother's kitchen, filled with the aroma of herbs and spices. She spoke of the hours they spent together, chopping vegetables, grinding spices, and stirring pots on the stove. It was clear that Maria had a deep appreciation for the culinary traditions passed down to her by her grandmother.

As Maria started to show me the steps for making the Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander, I could see the love and care she put into each ingredient. She marinated the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, allowing the flavors to meld together and infuse the meat with a tangy, citrusy taste.

Next, Maria chopped up a generous handful of fresh coriander and sprinkled it over the marinated chicken, adding a burst of vibrant green color and a fragrant, aromatic flavor. She then placed the chicken in the oven to roast, allowing the heat to caramelize the marinade and create a delicious, golden-brown crust on the outside.

As the chicken cooked, Maria whipped up a simple sauce using the pan drippings, lemon juice, and a touch of honey for sweetness. The sauce was the perfect finishing touch, adding a luscious, tangy flavor to the tender, juicy chicken.

Finally, Maria plated the Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves. The dish looked absolutely beautiful, with vibrant colors and enticing aromas that made my mouth water.

With a flourish, Maria presented the dish to me, a proud smile on her face. "I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do," she said. "It's a family favorite, and I'm thrilled to pass it on to you."

I took a bite of the Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander, and my taste buds were instantly transported to a world of bright, zesty flavors and aromatic herbs. The chicken was tender and succulent, with a tangy, citrusy kick that made my taste buds sing. The fresh coriander added a burst of freshness and a hint of spice that complemented the dish perfectly.

As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for Maria and her grandmother, who had passed down this wonderful recipe to me. It was a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to evoke memories of loved ones and cherished moments shared around the table.

From that day on, Lemony Chicken with Fresh Coriander became a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would make for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. And every time I cooked it, I would think of Maria and her grandmother, grateful for their generosity in sharing this delicious recipe with me.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that memorable day in Maria's kitchen, I am reminded of the joy and comfort that good food can bring. It is a gift that we can share with others, a way to nourish not just our bodies, but also our souls. And for that, I am forever grateful.