Hairy Bikers Chicken Balti
Hairy Bikers’ Chicken Balti is a classic curry dish, cooked in a Balti pan or deep skillet, where tender chicken is simmered with a mix of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, along with fresh tomatoes and onions. The recipe is both simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for creating restaurant-quality curry at home. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold spices gives this dish its characteristic vibrant flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main course
- Method: Stir-frying and simmering
- Cuisine: British-Indian
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (600g / 1.3 lbs): Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces for tender results.
- Onion (1 large): Finely chopped to add sweetness and body to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves (3): Minced for a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Fresh ginger (1-inch piece): Grated to provide warmth and depth.
- Green chilies (2): Chopped for heat, or adjust according to taste.
- Cumin seeds (1 tsp): Add an earthy base to the dish.
- Ground coriander (1 tsp): Provides a bright, citrusy note.
- Garam masala (1 tsp): A fragrant spice mix that adds complexity to the curry.
- Paprika (1 tsp): For a mild heat and rich color.
- Canned tomatoes (400g / 14 oz can): Add richness and a slightly tangy base to the sauce.
- Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor for depth.
- Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): For frying the chicken and spices.
- Fresh coriander (a handful): Chopped for garnish and added freshness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the onions: In a large pan or Balti pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and turn golden.
- Add the garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the spices: Add the cumin seeds, ground coriander, garam masala, and paprika to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
- Brown the chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Add the tomatoes: Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to fully cook through and the sauce to thicken.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the curry and season with salt, pepper, and extra chilies if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh coriander over the top and serve the Chicken Balti hot with naan bread or steamed rice.