Thari Wala Chicken – A Healthy Chicken Curry
Spice Level: Medium | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Serves: 4
Introduction:
Thari Wala Chicken is a beautifully aromatic and flavorful chicken curry with roots in traditional Indian cuisine. This healthy dish combines tender chicken with a rich blend of spices, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, making it both comforting and nourishing. With a medium level of spice, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a balanced heat profile without overwhelming the palate. This recipe is also lactose-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance, while still delivering that authentic curry experience.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving it for a family gathering, Thari Wala Chicken brings a vibrant, hearty dish that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken pieces (legs cut into thighs and drumsticks) | 8 pieces |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 large |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4-5 |
| Oil (vegetable or sunflower) | 2 tbsp |
| Tinned tomatoes | 1 can (400g) |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1-inch piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground coriander stalks | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh green chili, chopped | 1-2 (adjust to preference) |
| Water (boiling) | As needed |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped | A handful |
Allergen Information:
- Lactose-Free: This recipe does not contain dairy, making it a perfect option for lactose-intolerant individuals.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure to check the labels of any processed ingredients (like the canned tomatoes) to confirm they are gluten-free, as some may contain traces.
- Nut-Free: No nuts are involved in this recipe, making it safe for nut allergy sufferers.
Dietary Preferences:
- Lactose-Free
- Gluten-Free (with adjustments)
- Nut-Free
- High-Protein: A great source of lean protein from the chicken.
- Balanced in Spices: The combination of spices used here is gentle on the stomach while offering all the rich flavor typical of Indian curries.
Cooking Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by skinning the chicken pieces, removing any excess fat for a leaner dish. This not only reduces the fat content but also allows the curry’s flavors to penetrate the chicken more effectively. -
Fry the Onion and Garlic:
Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until they turn translucent, then reduce the heat and cook gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a rich dark golden brown. If the mixture starts to stick, add a splash of hot water to prevent burning. -
Create the Aromatic Masala:
Once the onions and garlic have reached the perfect color, add the tinned tomatoes, grated ginger, salt, turmeric, coriander stalks, and chopped green chili to the pan. Increase the heat to high and allow the mixture to cook. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Cook for about 5-10 minutes, letting the tomatoes melt down into a thick, fragrant masala paste. -
Add the Chicken:
Once the masala has thickened and become shiny, it’s time to add the chicken. Stir the pieces well to coat them evenly with the paste. Fry the chicken on high heat for 5 minutes, allowing it to sear and absorb the flavors. -
Simmer to Perfection:
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pan with a lid, and let the chicken cook slowly for 20-25 minutes. The meat should become tender, and the flavors will meld together as the chicken absorbs the spices. -
Finish the Curry:
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the meat starts to fall off the bone, add enough boiling water to just cover the chicken. Let it cook for an additional few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. -
Final Touches:
Stir in the garam masala and throw in some fresh chopped coriander. Give the curry a final stir and remove from the heat. -
Serve and Enjoy:
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or flatbreads like naan. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, spicy, and aromatic flavors of this traditional chicken curry.
Additional Tips:
- Adjusting Spice Level: The heat from the chili can be adjusted to your preference. For a milder curry, remove the seeds from the chili or use fewer peppers.
- Make It Heartier: You can add vegetables like potatoes or carrots to the curry, which will absorb the spices and create a heartier, more filling dish.
- Leftovers: Like many curries, Thari Wala Chicken tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it an excellent dish for meal prepping or for leftovers.
Conclusion:
Thari Wala Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the warmth and depth of Indian cooking to your table. With its combination of spices, tender chicken, and rich masala sauce, this healthy chicken curry is a hit for any occasion. It’s an ideal dish for those who want a medium-spiced, comforting meal that’s lactose-free and packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Enjoy this nutritious and aromatic curry with your family and friends!
