Easy Chicken Jalfrezi

There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich flavors of Easy Chicken Jalfrezi. Growing up, this dish was a staple in our household, often made during family gatherings and special occasions. The aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen would draw us all in, and I can still remember the anticipation as we gathered around the table, eager to dig in. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the succulent pieces of chicken, all simmered to perfection, created a feast for both the eyes and the palate. When I make Easy Chicken Jalfrezi now, it brings back fond memories of laughter, love, and delicious food. It’s a dish that celebrates bold flavors and hearty ingredients, and it never fails to impress guests. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

What Goes Into Easy Chicken Jalfrezi

When it comes to making Easy Chicken Jalfrezi, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating those authentic flavors. This dish is all about vibrant colors and rich tastes, achieved through a harmonious blend of spices and fresh produce. Key players include the succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and crunchy vegetables, all coming together to create a tantalizing meal.

• 4 garlic cloves – These aromatic gems add depth and flavor, creating a robust base for the dish.
• 4-inch piece fresh root ginger – Fresh ginger gives a warm and spicy kick, elevating the overall taste.
• 4 green chillies – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, these chillies bring a slight kick to the jalfrezi.
• Stalks and white roots from a bunch of cilantro (Reserve the leaves for later) – Adds herbal freshness and layers of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon brown mustard seeds – These seeds contribute a lovely nuttiness and subtle spice.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – A neutral oil for cooking that allows the spices to shine.
• 2 tablespoons tomato puree – This ingredient provides rich color and a deep, tangy flavor.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin – A staple spice that adds warmth and an earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground fenugreek – Offers a unique sweetness and aroma, enhancing the jalfrezi beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander – Adds a delightful citrusy note that balances the spices.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric – This vibrant yellow spice brings color and health benefits to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 green bell peppers (green capsicum) – Crunchy and sweet, they add texture and color.
• 1 onion – Sweet and caramelized, it forms the base of our jalfrezi.
• 2.2 lb boneless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, they provide the heartiness of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness and a lovely finish to the dish.
• 10 fresh ripe tomatoes – Juicy and flavorful, they create the sauce base.
• 250 ml water – Helps to achieve the desired consistency of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing tang.
• Salt – To taste, ensuring all flavors are balanced.
• 2 tablespoons natural yoghurt (optional) – Provides a creamy finish when served.
• Reserved coriander leaves – For garnish, adding freshness and color.

Step by Step Guide for Easy Chicken Jalfrezi

Making Easy Chicken Jalfrezi is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Each step is designed to build flavor and texture, so let’s dive into this culinary adventure. Follow these steps closely, and soon you’ll have a delicious dish to enjoy!

1. Start by peeling the garlic and ginger. Next, chop the heads off the green chillies and set them aside. These ingredients will form the aromatic base of your paste.
2. Add the chopped garlic, ginger, green chillies, brown mustard seeds, and the chopped cilantro stalks into a mini food processor. Pour in the vegetable oil and add the tomato puree. Whizz the mixture until it becomes smooth. The resulting paste will be fragrant and flavorful.
3. Once the paste is ready, add the ground cumin, ground fenugreek, ground coriander, turmeric, and sea salt. Whizz again until everything is well combined into a thick paste. You can store any leftover paste in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four to five days.
4. Now, it’s time to prepare the vegetables. Cut the green bell peppers in half, remove the seeds, and chop them into bite-sized pieces. This will give a lovely crunch to your dish.
5. Peel and roughly chop the onion. Then, chop the chicken thighs into small, bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
6. Core and finely chop the tomatoes, setting them aside for later. Their juiciness will be essential for creating the sauce.
7. In a large wok or high-sided skillet, heat the remaining vegetable oil over high heat. Once hot, fry the chopped green bell peppers. Cook until their flesh blisters and softens, which should take about three to four minutes.
8. Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet and continue to cook for another two to three minutes, stirring constantly until they turn translucent.
9. Now, add the butter to the pan. When it starts to sizzle, add the chopped chicken pieces. Cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken starts to color and brown slightly.
10. At this point, tip the jalfrezi paste into the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the paste. This is where the magic happens; the spices will cling to the chicken and create a rich flavor base.
11. Pour in the water and add the lemon juice. Turn the heat down to medium-low and let it cook gently for about twenty minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
12. Stir frequently, and if the sauce starts to stick, add more water as needed. After twenty minutes, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Bring everything back to a boil.
13. Once boiling, reduce the heat to its lowest setting and let the curry cook for another twenty to twenty-five minutes. Keep stirring every few minutes to prevent any sticking, adding extra water if necessary.
14. Finally, taste and check the seasoning, adjusting if needed. Serve your Easy Chicken Jalfrezi in bowls, garnished with a swirl of natural yoghurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Tips and Tricks about Easy Chicken Jalfrezi

Making Easy Chicken Jalfrezi is not just about following the steps; it’s about enhancing your dish with thoughtful tips. Here are some handy suggestions to take your cooking to the next level.

• Storage: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container for freshness.
• Freezing: If you want to make it ahead of time, Easy Chicken Jalfrezi freezes well. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan or chapati, and a side of yogurt.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies according to your preference for heat.
• Garnishing: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, so don’t skip it when serving.
• Serving Temperature: Serve hot for the best flavor experience; it makes a big difference in taste.

Serving This Easy Chicken Jalfrezi

Serving Easy Chicken Jalfrezi is just as important as preparing it. Here are some ideas to ensure it shines on your table:

• Ideal Accompaniment: Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Perfect for Dinner Parties: This dish not only looks stunning but also tastes divine, making it a crowd-pleaser for any dinner gathering.
• Weeknight Meal: Its quick preparation makes it a go-to choice for busy weeknights, leaving you satisfied without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Seasonal Serving: While it’s a delicious option year-round, the warm spices make it especially comforting during the colder months.
• Storing Leftovers: You can store any leftover jalfrezi in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider serving with a side of pickles or a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

FAQ

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Jalfrezi is a fantastic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its robust flavors and satisfying ingredients make it a must-try for anyone who loves a good curry. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot; you’ll be amazed at how easily it comes together and how delicious it tastes!

Easy Chicken Jalfrezi

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Chicken Jalfrezi is a vibrant dish bursting with flavors. The juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a medley of spices create an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies every craving. You won't want to miss making this delicious recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cloves garlic
• 4 inch fresh root ginger
• 4 green chillies
• stalks and white roots from a bunch of cilantro (Reserve the leaves for later)
• 1 teaspoon brown mustard seeds
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato puree
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground fenugreek
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 2 green brown bell peppers (green capsicum)
• 1 onion
• 2.2 lb boneless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 10 fresh ripe tomatoes
• 250 ml water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• salt
• 2 tablespoons natural yoghurt (optional)
• Reserved coriander leaves

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Food Processor
• Large Pot
• Peeler
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by peeling the garlic and ginger. Next, chop the heads off the green chillies and set them aside. These ingredients will form the aromatic base of your paste.
2. Add the chopped garlic, ginger, green chillies, brown mustard seeds, and the chopped cilantro stalks into a mini food processor. Pour in the vegetable oil and add the tomato puree. Whizz the mixture until it becomes smooth. The resulting paste will be fragrant and flavorful.
3. Once the paste is ready, add the ground cumin, ground fenugreek, ground coriander, turmeric, and sea salt. Whizz again until everything is well combined into a thick paste. You can store any leftover paste in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four to five days.
4. Now, it’s time to prepare the vegetables. Cut the green bell peppers in half, remove the seeds, and chop them into bite-sized pieces. This will give a lovely crunch to your dish.
5. Peel and roughly chop the onion. Then, chop the chicken thighs into small, bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
6. Core and finely chop the tomatoes, setting them aside for later. Their juiciness will be essential for creating the sauce.
7. In a large wok or high-sided skillet, heat the remaining vegetable oil over high heat. Once hot, fry the chopped green bell peppers. Cook until their flesh blisters and softens, which should take about three to four minutes.
8. Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet and continue to cook for another two to three minutes, stirring constantly until they turn translucent.
9. Now, add the butter to the pan. When it starts to sizzle, add the chopped chicken pieces. Cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken starts to color and brown slightly.
10. At this point, tip the jalfrezi paste into the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the paste. This is where the magic happens; the spices will cling to the chicken and create a rich flavor base.
11. Pour in the water and add the lemon juice. Turn the heat down to medium-low and let it cook gently for about twenty minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
12. Stir frequently, and if the sauce starts to stick, add more water as needed. After twenty minutes, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Bring everything back to a boil.
13. Once boiling, reduce the heat to its lowest setting and let the curry cook for another twenty to twenty-five minutes. Keep stirring every few minutes to prevent any sticking, adding extra water if necessary.
14. Finally, taste and check the seasoning, adjusting if needed. Serve your Easy Chicken Jalfrezi in bowls, garnished with a swirl of natural yoghurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Notes

• Storage: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container for freshness.
• Freezing: If you want to make it ahead of time, Easy Chicken Jalfrezi freezes well. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan or chapati, and a side of yogurt.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies according to your preference for heat.
• Garnishing: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, so don’t skip it when serving.
• Serving Temperature: Serve hot for the best flavor experience; it makes a big difference in taste.

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Meet Georgia Clark

I’m the one who obsesses over the details so you don't have to. I love the science of cooking and perfecting comfort classics. I’ve tested this recipe multiple times to guarantee it comes out foolproof and delicious every single time you make it.