Pepper Chicken

Pepper Chicken Recipe from India with Curry Leaves and Green Chillies

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pepper Chicken is a popular South Indian dish that is known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals and enjoy the combination of tender chicken with aromatic spices.

History

Pepper Chicken has its origins in the southern part of India, where black pepper is a staple spice in many dishes. The use of black pepper in this recipe gives the dish its signature flavor and adds a unique twist to traditional chicken dishes.

Ingredients

6 boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large onion, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
7 – 8 curry leaves
3 green chillies, sliced diagonally
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp freshly crushed black pepper
1 tsp soy sauce
salt, to taste
2 tbsp cooking oil
2 tbsp chopped spring onions for garnish

Marinade

1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
0.25 tsp freshly crushed black pepper
0.25 tsp red chili powder
0.25 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp soy sauce
salt, to taste

How to prepare

Mix the chicken pieces with the marinade ingredients and let them sit for at least an hour.
Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick pan and fry the marinated chicken pieces until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Add the remaining oil to the same pan and add the curry leaves and green chillies. Fry for about a minute, then add the sliced onions.
When the onions start to turn transparent, add the green peppers and fry for another minute or two.
Add the ginger-garlic paste, salt, and black pepper. Saute for a few minutes until the spices blend well.
Add the fried chicken pieces and soy sauce. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes.
Garnish with chopped spring onion and serve hot with fried rice.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Use bone-in chicken pieces for a richer flavor.
Substitute the green bell pepper with red or yellow bell peppers for a pop of color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Use freshly crushed black pepper for a more intense flavor.

- Adjust the amount of green chillies to suit your spice preference.

- Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become tough and dry.

Serving Suggestions

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

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the chicken for at least an hour for maximum flavor.

- Fry the chicken until it is browned on all sides for a crispy texture.

- Saute the spices until fragrant to release their full flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for a leaner option.

- Substitute the green chillies with jalapenos for a milder heat.

- Use coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Pepper Chicken with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve it in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pepper Chicken pairs well with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of yogurt-based raita. It also goes well with a glass of chilled lassi or mango lassi.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Pepper Chicken contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Pepper Chicken is a low-carb dish, with approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of Pepper Chicken contains around 12 grams of fats, making it a moderate-fat dish.

Proteins

This dish is a good source of protein, with each serving providing about 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Pepper Chicken is rich in vitamin C, thanks to the bell peppers used in the recipe. It also contains iron, potassium, and other essential minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. It is important to use gluten-free soy sauce if you have a gluten allergy.

Summary

Pepper Chicken is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish that is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors. With its tender chicken, aromatic spices, and kick of black pepper, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Pepper Chicken. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in the countryside. She was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I was always eager to learn from her.

One evening, as we sat down to dinner, she placed a steaming plate of Pepper Chicken in front of me. The aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I took a bite, and the flavors exploded in my mouth – the perfect balance of heat from the black pepper and the richness of the chicken.

I immediately asked my aunt for the recipe, eager to recreate this dish at home. She smiled and told me that it was a family recipe, passed down through generations. She then proceeded to show me how to make it, guiding me through each step with patience and love.

As I watched her cook, I realized that there was more to this recipe than just the ingredients and method. It was about the care and attention that went into every dish, the love that was shared with each bite. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the bond between family and food.

Over the years, I have perfected the recipe for Pepper Chicken, adding my own twists and tweaks along the way. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its bold flavors and comforting warmth. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that moment in my aunt's kitchen, learning the secrets of this beloved dish.

The key to the recipe lies in the quality of the ingredients – fresh black peppercorns, tender chicken pieces, and a medley of aromatic spices. I toast the peppercorns until fragrant, then grind them into a coarse powder, infusing the dish with their fiery heat. The chicken is marinated in a blend of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and turmeric, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful.

As the chicken cooks, I add in a mixture of onions, tomatoes, and green chilies, creating a luscious gravy that coats the meat in a symphony of flavors. I finish the dish with a sprinkling of fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice, brightening up the dish and tying all the elements together.

The Pepper Chicken is best enjoyed with a side of fluffy basmati rice or crispy naan bread, soaking up the rich gravy and savoring each bite. It is a dish that brings people together, evoking memories of shared meals and laughter around the table.

I am grateful to my aunt for passing down this recipe to me, for teaching me the art of cooking with love and passion. It is a gift that I will cherish forever, a reminder of the joy that comes from creating delicious meals for those we care about.

And so, I continue to make Pepper Chicken for my loved ones, sharing the warmth and comfort of this dish with each serving. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a legacy that I will pass on to future generations, ensuring that its flavors and traditions endure for years to come.