Andhra Pepper Chicken Recipe
Andhra Pepper Chicken is a spicy and aromatic dish, packed with bold flavors and a unique blend of spices. Originating from the Andhra region of India, this dish is an absolute delight for those who love heat and depth in their food. It is characterized by its fiery black pepper and tangy lemon zest, making it a perfect choice for a side dish to complement your meal. The chicken is cooked to tenderness, soaking up the rich flavors of the spices and seasonings, while the crushed black pepper adds a vibrant kick to every bite.
Whether you’re serving it with steamed rice, Tawa Paratha, or a comforting bowl of Andhra Style Pappu Charu (Lentil Soup), this dish is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, yet the results are absolutely stunning. So, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (cut into cubes with bone) | 500 grams |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 tablespoons |
| Ginger (grated) | 2 teaspoons |
| Green Chilies (chopped) | 3 whole |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons (plus 1 teaspoon more) |
| Curry Leaves | 12 leaves |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sunflower Oil | For cooking |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (freshly crushed) | 2-1/2 tablespoons |
| Coriander Leaves (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Andhra
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Marinate the Chicken:
Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. Add the turmeric powder, ginger garlic paste, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. -
Prepare the Spices and Temper the Oil:
Heat sunflower oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, and 3/4 of the curry leaves. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until they release their aroma. -
Cook the Onions:
Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they turn golden and begin to caramelize. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. The onions will add a sweet base flavor to the dish, balancing the heat from the spices. -
Add the Green Chilies and Chicken:
Once the onions are golden brown, add the chopped green chilies to the pan and stir for about a minute. Then, add the marinated chicken pieces and sauté for 2 minutes, ensuring they are evenly coated with the spices. -
Spice it Up:
Sprinkle in the coriander powder and freshly crushed black pepper. Stir the mixture well, allowing the spices to coat the chicken. Lower the heat and continue cooking, stirring intermittently. If necessary, add a little water to prevent the spices from burning. This step will take about 4-5 minutes, allowing the curry to come together and the flavors to meld. -
Add Water and Simmer:
Pour in about 1/4 cup of water. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the chicken cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is tender and fully cooked through. Keep checking and stirring as needed. -
Finish the Dish:
Once the chicken is tender and the moisture has reduced, uncover the pan and continue to stir over medium heat until the remaining liquid evaporates. This will help thicken the curry. -
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped coriander leaves (reserve 1/4 cup) over the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes. Before serving, garnish with the remaining coriander leaves, 1 teaspoon of crushed black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice for an added tang.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Andhra Pepper Chicken alongside Tawa Paratha or steamed rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a hearty bowl of Andhra Style Pappu Charu (Lentil Soup) to enjoy a traditional Andhra lunch experience. The combination of the spicy chicken, the softness of the paratha or rice, and the comforting lentil soup will elevate your meal to a whole new level.
Tips for Perfect Andhra Pepper Chicken:
- Marination: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for even more depth of flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of green chilies or crushed peppercorns. Alternatively, increase them if you enjoy extra heat.
- Water Usage: Keep an eye on the moisture levels as you cook. Adding water intermittently helps to create a saucier curry, but too much water will dilute the flavors.
- Freshly Crushed Pepper: Using freshly crushed black peppercorns brings out the best aroma and flavor. It’s a key ingredient in this dish, so don’t substitute it with pre-ground pepper.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg |
Conclusion
Andhra Pepper Chicken is a must-try for spice lovers and anyone craving the bold, vibrant flavors of South India. With its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking method, it makes for a flavorful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main, it pairs wonderfully with flatbreads and rice dishes. The combination of pepper, curry leaves, and tangy lemon creates an unforgettable taste experience that will have your guests asking for more. Enjoy this easy-to-make, fiery chicken dish as part of your next meal and experience the taste of Andhra cuisine at its best!
