If you love the bold and exotic flavors of India, this recipe for Tandoori-Style Balti Chicken will delight you. We blend the depth and warmth of garam masala and the distinctive touch of tandoori, two of India's most iconic spices, to create a dish bursting with flavor, all from the comfort of your home and without the need for a tandoori oven.
This dish is prepared in a traditional pan known as a Balti Dish, perfect for seasoning the chicken to perfection and achieving that rich, aromatic sauce that defines it. The combination of tomato sauce, garlic, and the spices, together with the gentle simmer of chicken stock, allows the chicken thighs to absorb the flavors and aromas, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
At the end, a sprinkle of chopped cashews and fresh cilantro adds the crunchy, fresh note that elevates the dish. Served with basmati rice and naan bread to mop up every drop of the delicious sauce, this dish promises a flavor journey straight to India from your kitchen.
If you're curious or enjoy Indian flavors, you'll surely like this recipe featuring two of the most popular spices in Indian cuisine, all with the simplicity and comfort of a homemade meal.
Ingredients
- 900 g skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper
- 1/3 can of tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp tandoori masala
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 2 tbsp toasted cashews
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Basmati rice and naan bread to serve
Preparation
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce with the garlic and the two masala spices. Set aside.
- Heat the Balti Dish over medium-high heat for one minute. Add the vegetable oil.
- When the oil shimmers and begins to smoke, add the onions with a pinch of salt and sauté until translucent. Next, add the tomato paste mixture and stir well.
- Add the chicken thighs and coat them with the tomato paste mixture.
- Now, pour in the chicken stock and reduce the heat to medium. Let simmer for 25 minutes, or until tender.
- Carefully remove the chicken with tongs and place on a plate. If desired, add more seasoning. Garnish with chopped cashews and cilantro.
- Serve with basmati rice and naan bread. Enjoy!
