Spicy Chicken Jalfrezi: A Flavorful Indian Classic

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Chicken Jalfrezi is a vibrant, spicy, and tangy Indian curry that’s perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this dish is known for its rich tomato-based sauce, tender chicken pieces, and a medley of colorful bell peppers. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, this Chicken Jalfrezi recipe is a must-try!

What makes this dish stand out is its perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and sweetness. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and succulent chicken creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste or add your favorite veggies for a personalized twist.

Why This Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe Works

This Chicken Jalfrezi recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Unlike traditional curries that require hours of simmering, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The use of simple, fresh ingredients ensures that every bite is bursting with authentic Indian flavors.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy, this Chicken Jalfrezi will hit all the right notes.

What’s In Chicken Jalfrezi?

The magic of Chicken Jalfrezi lies in its fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work best for this recipe. They stay tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
Bell Peppers: Red, green, and yellow bell peppers add color, crunch, and sweetness to the dish.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes and tomato puree form the base of the sauce, giving it a rich, tangy flavor.
Spices: A blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala creates the signature Jalfrezi flavor.
Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and ginger form the flavor foundation of the curry.
Chili Peppers: Fresh green chilies add a spicy kick, while red chili powder enhances the heat.

How To Make Chicken Jalfrezi

This Chicken Jalfrezi recipe is straightforward and comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Dice the onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Mince the garlic and ginger.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Spices

Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they turn white on the outside.
Stir in the ground spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder). Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Add the diced tomatoes and tomato puree to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.
Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle garam masala over the curry and stir to combine.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.

Sides for Chicken Jalfrezi

Pair your Chicken Jalfrezi with these delicious sides:

Steamed Basmati Rice: The perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Garlic Naan: Soft and fluffy, ideal for scooping up every last bit of curry.
Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side to balance the heat.
Pickled Vegetables: Adds a tangy crunch to complement the rich curry.

Recipe FAQ’s

How Spicy Is Chicken Jalfrezi?

Chicken Jalfrezi is traditionally a medium-spicy dish, but you can adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the amount of chili powder and green chilies.

Can I Use Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to make the dish even more nutritious and flavorful.

How Long Does Chicken Jalfrezi Last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Other Recipes To Try

Butter Chicken: A creamy, mildly spiced curry that’s perfect for beginners.
Paneer Tikka Masala: A vegetarian delight with grilled paneer cubes in a rich tomato sauce.
Lamb Rogan Josh: A fragrant and spicy Kashmiri curry made with tender lamb.
Prawn Balchao: A tangy and spicy Goan prawn curry with a unique flavor profile.
Vegetable Biryani: A colorful and aromatic rice dish packed with veggies and spices.