One of my favorite Indian dishes is Masala. There is something so extraordinary about all the flavors and spices in this classic Indian dish.
Chicken Masala holds a special place among my favorite Indian dishes. The harmonious blend of flavors and how they melt together never fails to captivate my taste buds. This is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a quick and delightful recipe at home. Bursting with a symphony of spices and flavors, it embodies the true essence of masala, which translates to “spices” in Hindi. Brace yourself for a culinary adventure filled with aromatic spices and a delectable medley of tastes.
Table of Contents
- Authentic Indian Chicken Masala: A Flavorful Journey Of Spices
- About Making The Authentic Indian Chicken Masala
- Authentic Indian Chicken Masala Recipe
Authentic Indian Chicken Masala: A Flavorful Journey Of Spices
In Indian cuisine, the word “masala” holds immense significance. Derived from the Hindi language, masala translates to “spices.”
However, its essence goes beyond a mere translation, encompassing a rich tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions. Masala can refer to individual spices or a blend of spices used in cooking in dry powders or aromatic pastes.
India Has An Extensive Repertoire Of Masala Or Spices
India, known for its diverse culinary heritage, boasts an extensive repertoire of spices. Just as each person has a unique name for identification, every spice bears its distinct name.
In this context, masala serves as a unifying term, representing spices or a harmonious fusion of diverse flavors. It encapsulates the spirit of Indian cooking, where blending spices transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary delights.
Using The Word Masala In Indian Cuisine
At its core, masala denotes a spice blend, but its applications in the culinary world are multifaceted. Let’s explore some of the various ways in which the term masala finds expression:
- Expressing Heat Level – “Masala” is often employed to describe a dish’s spiciness or heat level. Different types of masalas indicate the intensity of flavors and the level of heat one can expect to encounter, from mild to moderate and fiery hot.
- Base Cooking Sauce – A significant aspect of Indian cuisine is the creation of a base sauce that serves as a foundation for many dishes. This base sauce, masala, involves a harmonious blend of spices and ingredients such as onions, ginger, garlic, and tomatoes. It imparts depth and complexity to the subsequent layers of flavors.
- Diverse Dish Preparations – The word masala frequently graces the names of various dishes on restaurant menus, signifying their unique flavor profiles. From the beloved Chicken Masala to Chana Masala, Masala Bhindi, Masala Gobhi, and even Masala Chai, these dishes incorporate diverse spices, offering an explosion of flavors to tantalize the taste buds. The term “masala” acts as a descriptor, highlighting the presence of a flavorful spice blend.
In Indian cuisine, the art of using masala goes beyond mere seasoning; it embodies a cultural legacy passed down through generations. The careful selection, blending, and application of spices elevate dishes to new heights, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.
Each region in Indian and household may have its unique masala blends, reflecting their distinct culinary traditions and preferences.
About Making The Authentic Indian Chicken Masala
Regarding the tantalizing Authentic Indian Chicken Masala Recipe, the dish showcases the true essence of masala. A harmonious marriage of spices, tender chicken, and a luscious masala base sauce results in a delectable masterpiece that captures the very heart of Indian cuisine.
The flavors dance on the palate, offering a symphony of tastes, from earthy cumin and coriander to fiery chili and fragrant garam masala. Here are a few things to remember:
- Yogurt – Be sure to use plain yogurt (no sugar). Also, do not use any Greek yogurt. If you only have Greek yogurt, you can thin it with milk, water, or chicken stock to have the same consistency as plain yogurt.
- Chickpea Flour – We recommend chickpea flour, but you can use all-purpose white flour if you do not have it.
- Kashmiri Chili Powder – You should be able to find this in most Indian grocery stores or online. You can substitute 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper if you cannot find it.
- Dried Fenugreek (Katsura Methi) – Derived from the fenugreek plant (Methi in Hindi), Kasoori methi, also known as Kasuri methi, is a spice that possesses a unique and addictive bitter taste. Its presence in Indian cuisine serves to elevate and intensify flavors. The captivating aroma and distinctively delightful flavor of Kasoori methi have a mesmerizing effect on the taste buds, leaving a lasting impression of culinary fascination. You should be able to also find this in most Indian grocery stores or online. You can substitute ground yellow mustard or a teaspoon of Dijon Mustard if you cannot find it.
- Black Salt – Black salt is known by various names such as Kala Namak, kala loon, bird noon, Indian black salt, Sulemani namak, bit logon, or Himalayan black salt; it is a unique type of volcanic rock salt that originates from the Himalayan region. Its distinctive violet-to-black hue lends it the name “black salt.” You can usually buy at an Indian store or online. You can use sea or table salt if you can not find or want to use it.
- Garam Masala – Garam Masala, an essential spice in Indian cuisine, is widely used in various dishes. The term “garam masala” originates from North India and translates to “hot spice blend” in Hindi, aptly reflecting its warming properties. The composition of garam masala can vary but commonly includes coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cloves, black peppercorns, cardamom seeds, cinnamon sticks, and bay leaves. These aromatic spices come together harmoniously, creating a flavorful and refreshing blend. –
About Cooking The Chicken Masala
A nonstick skillet heated over medium heat with coconut, sunflower, or vegetable oil is recommended for cooking the chicken masala. Cook the chicken on both sides until it turns brown and is thoroughly cooked, which usually takes 5 to 8 minutes per side.
It is essential to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked but keep in mind that the exact timing may vary depending on your stovetop.
If you prefer not to fry the chicken or find it inconvenient, an alternative method is baking. Preheat your oven and lightly grease a baking dish.
Place the chicken masala in the dish and bake it for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until fully cooked. It is crucial to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a food thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for both frying and baking methods.
We have also put this chicken masala on the BBQ and it also works great with the BBQ version.
Serve With Chutney, Rice, And Naan
To enhance the authenticity of this Indian Masala, it can be served alongside chutney, rice, and naan. Opting for brown rice adds a healthier twist to the meal, while the addition of chutney provides a savory condiment that complements the flavors.
Chutney, a versatile condiment originating from India, is crafted by slow-cooking fruits or vegetables with vinegar and spices. Each country has developed unique variations as it has traveled across the globe.
South African chutneys often incorporate apricots, while British versions favor apples. In Indian cuisine, chutneys showcase diverse ingredients, such as coconut, mint, peanut, mango, tamarind, and a blend of spices, lending a compelling complexity to the overall dining experience.
So choose your favorite chutney and enjoy it with this Chicken Masala.
Authentic Indian Chicken Masala Recipe
Authentic Indian Chicken Masala Recipe – Flavors Of India
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes0
minutesChicken Masala holds a cherished spot among my favorite Indian delicacies. The impeccable fusion of flavors, beautifully intertwined, never ceases to mesmerize my taste buds. If you’re seeking a quick and utterly delightful recipe to experiment with in the comfort of your kitchen, look no further than this perfect choice. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your senses and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
1/4 Cup Chickpea Flour
1/3 Cup Plain Yogurt (see our notes on the yogurt)
1 Teaspoon Black Salt (see notes on salt)
1/2 Teaspoon Dried Fenugreek Leaves (see notes)
1 Teaspoon Kashmiri Chili Powder (see notes)
1 Teaspoon Garam Masala
1/2 Teaspoon Cumin Seeds
1.25 Pounds Boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 2” pieces.
3 Tablespoon Coconut Oil (for frying). See notes on cooking.
Directions
- Place a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over low heat. Add chickpea flour to the skillet and toast it, stirring constantly, until it takes a slightly darker color, usually taking about 2 minutes. Transfer the toasted flour to a big bowl and ensure the skillet is carefully wiped clean.
- Combine yogurt, salt, chili powder, fenugreek, garam masala, and cumin in the same bowl with the toasted flour. Stir the ingredients thoroughly until they are well blended, forming a thick sauce. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them gently until they are evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet, arranging them in a single layer. It’s acceptable if some pieces touch each other. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for approximately 4 to 5 minutes until it attains a brown and crispy texture. Keep a close eye on the cooking process and reduce the heat if necessary to prevent burning. Flip the chicken pieces and continue cooking until all sides turn golden and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, usually taking 3 to 5 minutes. Thicker chicken pieces may require slightly more cooking time. Serve the dish with chutney, rice, or naan if desired. (See additional notes above if you want to bake instead of fry the chicken).
Notes
- This recipe was adapted from the Washington Post article, and the recipe from Voraciously entitled Masala Chicken from Chetna Mayan is crunchy, spicy, and ready in 30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 4g
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