Flavorful Kadhai Chicken Recipe: A Spicy Delight from Indian Cuisine

Introduction: 

Kadhai Chicken, a popular dish in Indian cuisine, is known for its robust flavors and aromatic spices. This dish originated in the northern regions of India, particularly Punjab, and has since become a favorite across the country and beyond. The name "kadhai" refers to the traditional Indian wok-like pan in which the dish is cooked. With its perfect balance of spices and tender chicken, Kadhai Chicken is sure to tantalize your taste buds and become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

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Ingredients:

500g chicken, cut into pieces

2 onions, finely chopped

2 tomatoes, finely chopped

2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise

1 capsicum, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon coriander seeds

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Cooking oil

Instructions:

Heat some oil in a kadhai (or a deep skillet) over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and coriander seeds. Sauté until they crackle and release their aroma.

Add chopped onions and green chilies to the kadhai. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Add the chopped tomatoes to the kadhai. Cook until they soften and the oil starts to separate.

Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another minute.

Toss in the chicken pieces and coat them evenly with the masala mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is sealed and lightly browned.

Add the sliced capsicum to the kadhai. Stir and cook for a few more minutes until the capsicum is slightly tender yet retains its crunch.

Sprinkle garam masala and crushed kasuri methi over the chicken. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Cover the kadhai with a lid and let the chicken simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes or until it's cooked through and tender.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and check for seasoning. Adjust salt and spices if needed.

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Enjoy the flavorful and aromatic Kadhai Chicken with your family and friends!

Tips:

You can customize the spice level according to your preference by adjusting the amount of red chili powder and green chilies.

For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of fresh cream or yogurt towards the end of cooking.

Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for an hour before cooking can make it more tender and flavorful.

Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed kadhai or skillet to prevent the masala from burning.

Leftover Kadhai Chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify.

Conclusion: 

Kadhai Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly showcases the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. With its blend of spices, tender chicken, and crunchy capsicum, Kadhai Chicken is a true culinary delight that will leave you coming back for more. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a flavorful journey with this classic Indian dish!