Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that packs a punch of flavor, then look no further than this Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken. Inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of South Asia, this dish brings together tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients to create a meal that will delight your taste buds. The best part? You can whip it up in just half an hour! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family with minimal effort.

Why Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken is Worth Your Time

This Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken is a fantastic dish for several reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a hearty meal. Second, it’s bursting with flavor thanks to a blend of spices that create a rich sauce, elevating simple chicken to a whole new level. Finally, it’s versatile; you can serve it over rice, with naan, or even with a fresh salad. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Gather These Ingredients

To create your Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/4 cup rapeseed oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, sliced
• 2-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
• 6 medium tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili powder
• 2 teaspoons turmeric
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 2 small green chilies, chopped
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups cold water
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

Appliances & Accessories

Before diving into cooking, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand:

• Large skillet or wok: Perfect for sautéing and simmering your ingredients.
• Cutting board: For chopping onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes.
• Sharp knife: To make quick work of your chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring your delicious Balti chicken.

Cook Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken Like This

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken.

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the rapeseed oil over medium heat. Allow it to get hot, which will help release the flavors of the spices.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Aromatics

Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they are translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Then, add the sliced garlic and ginger, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Once the onions are ready, sprinkle in the Kashmiri chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, ground coriander, and fenugreek seeds. Stir well to coat the onions and cook for another 2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Add the roughly chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the chicken! Stir in the cubed chicken breast and chopped green chilies. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned on all sides.

Step 6: Simmer with Water

Pour in the cold water, ensuring that the chicken is submerged. Season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh cilantro. Serve your Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken hot, alongside rice or naan for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!

Seasonal Spins

This Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken can be adapted to suit the seasons! Consider these variations:

• Spring: Add asparagus or peas for a fresh crunch.
• Summer: Toss in diced zucchini or bell peppers for a pop of color.
• Fall: Incorporate butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a hearty twist.
• Winter: Serve with roasted root vegetables on the side for a warming meal.

Steer Clear of These

When preparing your Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Using too much oil, which can make the dish greasy.
• Overcooking the chicken, resulting in a dry texture.
• Not letting the spices toast long enough, which can dull the flavor.
• Skipping the fresh cilantro, as it adds a vital burst of freshness.

Prep Ahead & Store

To make your cooking process even easier, consider these prep-ahead tips:

You can chop your onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save you time on busy weeknights.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of oil?

Absolutely! While rapeseed oil is recommended, you can also use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even coconut oil for a different flavor profile.

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you prefer a meatless option, try using chickpeas or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these ingredients will not require as long to cook.

Is Balti chicken spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the amount of Kashmiri chili powder or omit the green chilies for a milder dish.

Can I freeze Balti chicken?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

If you loved this Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken, check out these quick weeknight meals:

That’s a Wrap

And there you have it—your Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken is ready to impress! This dish is not only quick and simple but also a delightful way to bring a taste of South Asia to your dining table. With its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed win. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!