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Homemade Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken recipe photo

Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken

This Easy 30 Minute Balti Chicken is bursting with aromatic spices and tender chicken, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine South Asian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Wok
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

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

Instructions
 

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Notes

  • Prep chopped aromatics a day ahead for faster cooking.
  • Adjust spice levels by modifying chili powder and green chilies.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water.
Keyword 30 Minute, Balti, chicken, Easy, Quick