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Kadai Chicken Recipe - Spicy North Indian Chicken Delight

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    ChefPandas
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🍲 About This Dish

Kadai Chicken, originating from the vibrant kitchens of North India, is a beloved dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region. This fiery chicken curry gets its name from the traditional Indian wok, or "kadai," in which it is cooked. The dish is a flavorful blend of tender chicken pieces, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based gravy, making it a favorite among spice aficionados.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Chicken : Murgh (Chicken)
  • Oil : Tel
  • Onion : Pyaaz
  • Tomato : Tamatar
  • Ginger : Adrak
  • Garlic : Lehsun
  • Green Chilies : Hari Mirch
  • Bell Peppers : Shimla Mirch
  • Coriander Seeds : Dhania
  • Cumin Seeds : Jeera
  • Garam Masala : Garam Masala
  • Kashmiri Red Chili Powder : Kashmiri Lal Mirch Powder
  • Turmeric Powder : Haldi Powder

✨ What Makes It Special

Kadai Chicken showcases regional variations within North India, with each household adding its unique touch to the recipe. In Punjab, for example, the dish may include generous amounts of ghee for richness, while in Rajasthan, the emphasis is on using locally sourced spices like dried red chilies for heat.

📝 Ingredients

  • 500g chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 2 onions, finely sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1-inch ginger, julienned
  • 5-6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp Kashmiri red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

  1. Dry roast coriander seeds and cumin seeds until fragrant.
  2. Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder.

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat oil in a kadai or wok. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
  2. Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Cook until the raw aroma disappears.
  3. Add tomatoes and cook until they soften.
  4. Add the spice blend, garam masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add chicken pieces and bell peppers. Stir to coat the chicken with the spices.
  6. Cover and cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  7. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Kadai Chicken is traditionally served hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Pair it with a side of cooling cucumber raita and pickled onions for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder.
  • For an extra smoky flavor, you can char the bell peppers before adding them to the dish.
  • Use bone-in chicken pieces for added flavor and succulence.

📦 Storage

Store any leftover Kadai Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Enjoy the bold flavors and aromatic spices of this quintessential North Indian dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Kadai Chicken is a true testament to the culinary diversity and richness of Indian cuisine.