Are you ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure? This Quick and Easy Chicken Balti is about to become your new obsession! Imagine diving into a vibrant, aromatic dish that brings the bold flavors of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen in just 30 minutes. Whether you're a spice lover or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
- 2 tbsp balti paste
- 1 can chopped tomatoes
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Ensure you have your chicken thighs diced, balti paste, chopped tomatoes, sliced onion, minced garlic, sliced bell pepper, salt, and fresh coriander ready for use.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The garlic should become fragrant.
- Next, add the diced chicken thighs to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the balti paste, ensuring that the chicken is well coated. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
- Pour in the can of chopped tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced bell pepper to the pan and season with salt to taste. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the bell pepper is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Once everything is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pan from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- To serve, spoon the chicken balti into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: Chicken thighs work best for this recipe as they stay juicier and more tender compared to chicken breasts.
- Spice Intensity: Adjust the amount of balti paste to control the heat level. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnishing to add a bright, fresh flavor that complements the rich sauce.
- Pan Temperature: Maintain a medium heat to ensure even cooking and prevent burning the spices and garlic.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water. If it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken.
- Make Ahead Tip: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with basmati rice, naan bread, or both to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 344kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
