Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe: A Flavorful Stir-Fry of Chicken, Bell Peppers, and Tomato Gravy
Chicken Jalfrezi is a delightful North Indian dish that combines the goodness of tender chicken pieces, crunchy bell peppers, and a tangy tomato-based gravy. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious one-pot meal. With aromatic spices and a burst of freshness from coriander, the Chicken Jalfrezi is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you coming back for more.
This Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe brings together vibrant vegetables, juicy chicken, and the perfect balance of spices. The vegetables are stir-fried to retain their crunch, while the chicken absorbs the flavorful tomato gravy. A hint of sweetness from honey brings an additional layer of richness to the dish, making it the perfect accompaniment to hot, soft phulkas or even steamed rice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (cut into small pieces) | 250 grams |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium-sized |
| Red Bell pepper (Capsicum) (diced) | 1 |
| Green Bell pepper (Capsicum) (diced) | 1 |
| Carrots (Gajjar) (diced thin) | 2 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch piece |
| Garlic (grated) | 2 cloves |
| Tomato (diced) | 1 |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves (finely chopped) | 1 stalk |
| Butter (Salted, softened) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~275 kcal |
| Protein | ~30g |
| Carbohydrates | ~18g |
| Fats | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~500mg |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing all your ingredients before you start cooking. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, and chop the onion, bell peppers, carrots, and tomato. Grate the ginger and garlic and set them aside. In a separate bowl, measure out the spices: turmeric powder, garam masala powder, coriander powder. Also, keep the honey, tomato puree, and coriander leaves ready for later use. -
Cook the Onions, Ginger, and Garlic:
Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the grated ginger and garlic. Sauté them for a minute until aromatic, then add the diced onions. Stir-fry the onions until they become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. -
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Once the onions are cooked, add the diced bell peppers and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry them on medium heat for 3-4 minutes, just until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. This step ensures the vegetables stay vibrant and fresh in texture. -
Add Chicken and Cook:
Next, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to combine with the vegetables. Cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden brown and is almost fully cooked. -
Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Once the chicken is browned, add the diced tomatoes to the pan. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and salt to taste. Stir everything well, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are coated with the spices. Let this cook for about 5-6 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. -
Incorporate Tomato Puree:
Add the homemade tomato puree to the pan, mixing it thoroughly with the chicken and vegetables. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for another 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend together and the chicken to absorb the rich tomato gravy. -
Add Honey and Final Simmer:
After the tomatoes have broken down into a rich sauce, add the teaspoon of honey. The sweetness from the honey will balance out the tanginess of the tomatoes and give the dish a lovely depth of flavor. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for another 3-4 minutes. -
Adjust Salt and Spice:
Check the seasoning of the dish—add more salt or spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to add some red chili powder at this stage. -
Garnish and Serve:
Finally, stir in the finely chopped coriander leaves for a burst of fresh flavor. Turn off the heat and transfer the Chicken Jalfrezi to a serving bowl. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Chicken Jalfrezi hot with phulkas (Indian flatbreads) or a side of Mooli Raita for a complete meal. The savory gravy, combined with the tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, makes it an ideal dish for any occasion.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Jalfrezi:
- Chicken Cuts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and ease of cooking. However, chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier result.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, beans, or even mushrooms to the Jalfrezi for extra texture and nutrition.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of garam masala and coriander powder to suit your spice preferences. For an extra kick, you can add some green chilies.
- Tomato Puree: If homemade tomato puree is not available, store-bought purees can be used. Opt for a good-quality, no-added-sugar variety for the best flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Chicken Jalfrezi tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something hearty yet simple to make.
- High in Protein: Packed with lean chicken, this dish provides a significant protein boost, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice levels, add more veggies, or even switch up the meat to suit your preferences.
Chicken Jalfrezi is the ultimate one-pot meal that’s full of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the vibrant flavors of North India right in your own kitchen!
