Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, minced
– 2 tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp turmeric powder
– 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup yogurt or cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
– Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
– Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Spices:
– Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
4. Cook the Chicken:
– Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the Vegetables:
– Add the chopped green and red bell peppers to the pan. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
6. Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
– Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and form a sauce.
7. Simmer the Sauce:
– Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. If using, stir in the yogurt or cream to make the sauce creamier.
8. Season to Taste:
– Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve:
– Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
10. Serve:
– Serve the Chicken Jalfrezi hot with steamed rice, naan, or your favorite Indian bread.
