Enjoy the warmth and flavors of South India with our Pepper Chicken recipe. A traditional, aromatic delight, it's ideal for soothing colds and coughs. Pair this comforting dish with plain rice or chapati for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add bay leaves and Indian black stone flower, sautéing briefly for an aromatic infusion.
Add onion to the pan and sauté until it turns soft, infusing the dish with a sweet, caramelized flavor.
Mix in turmeric, chili, coriander powder, salt, and ginger-garlic paste to build the spice profile.
Add chopped tomatoes, sautéing until they break down and blend with the spices.
Cover and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to become mushy and enrich the masala.
Introduce chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated with the masala for maximum flavor absorption.
Cover and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook evenly and soak up the flavors.
Open the lid, add green chili, and give a quick mix to incorporate a vibrant, spicy kick into the dish.
Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes with the lid on, letting the flavors meld together.
Open the lid and stir in pepper powder and curry leaves, blending them well for a burst of bold flavor and aroma.
Cook the mixture until the chicken releases oil from the sides, signaling it's perfectly cooked and flavors are richly infused.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken masala and mix well to add a bright, tangy finish to the flavors.
Give the Pepper Chicken a final quick stir, ensuring all the flavors are thoroughly combined. Now, it's perfectly ready for you to savor and enjoy.
To Serve
Serve the warm Pepper Chicken Masala with plain rice, biryani, or chapati. For more pairing ideas, see the serving suggestions section.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips for perfect Pepper Chicken:
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh curry leaves and freshly ground pepper for the best flavor. Dried curry leaves can be used in a pinch, but fresh leaves offer a more vibrant taste.
Balanced Heat: Adjust the amount of green chilies and pepper powder according to your heat preference. Remember, the heat level can intensify as the dish cooks.
Enhance Traditional Flavor: Add green chili, curry leaves, pepper powder, and lemon juice towards the end of cooking for an authentic taste.
Oil Variations for Unique Flavors: Use coconut, sesame, or mustard oil to add a unique twist to the dish.
Resting Time: After cooking, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld together better.
Gravy Version: For a gravy-style Pepper Chicken, adjust the consistency by adding the desired amount of water.
Dry Version: To make a dry Pepper Chicken, let the gravy simmer on low heat until the chicken absorbs all the moisture, intensifying the flavors.