3 Delectable Chicken Balti Recipes

Discover the secrets to creating the perfect Chicken Balti with this comprehensive guide. Explore a variety of recipes, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to master this aromatic and flavorful Indian dish.

Chicken Balti recipes have long been a beloved staple in the world of Indian cuisine, offering a delightful blend of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich, creamy sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a newcomer to the world of Indian flavors, mastering the art of Chicken Balti is a culinary journey worth embarking on.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to help you create the perfect Chicken Balti every time. From the perfectly spiced marinade to the flavorful sauce, we’ll explore the nuances that make this dish a true standout in the world of Indian curries.

Understanding the Essence of Chicken Balti

At the heart of Chicken Balti lies a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that come together to create a truly aromatic and satisfying dish. Let’s explore the key elements that make this recipe a beloved classic.

The Chicken

The foundation of Chicken Balti is, of course, the chicken. Typically, a combination of chicken breasts and thighs is used to provide a balance of lean meat and juicy, flavorful dark meat. The chicken is often marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, ensuring it absorbs the bold flavors of the dish.

The Spices

The spice blend used in Chicken Balti is what truly sets this dish apart. A combination of warm, earthy spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, along with chili peppers, create a complex and deeply flavorful base for the curry.

The Creamy Sauce

The rich, creamy sauce that binds the chicken and spices together is the glue that holds the entire dish together. This sauce is typically made by simmering the chicken in a mixture of tomatoes, cream, and additional spices, creating a luxurious and comforting base for the dish.

The Aromatics

Onions, garlic, and ginger are the unsung heroes of Chicken Balti, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. These aromatic ingredients are often sautéed and incorporated into the curry, providing a foundation for the other flavors to build upon.

Classic Chicken Balti Recipes

Now that we’ve explored the fundamentals of Chicken Balti, let’s dive into some classic recipes that will help you master this beloved dish.

1. Traditional Chicken Balti

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Mix well and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic and ginger are fragrant.
4. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
6. Season the Chicken Balti with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh cilantro just before serving.
8. Serve the Chicken Balti hot, accompanied by basmati rice, naan bread, or your choice of Indian side dishes.

Variations and Tips for Chicken Balti

• For a spicier Chicken Balti, increase the amount of chili powder or add a finely chopped fresh chili pepper.
• Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the dish.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the curry for extra vegetables and texture.
• Use a combination of chicken breasts and thighs for a mix of lean and juicy meat.
• Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 4 hours) for maximum flavor absorption.
• Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of garam masala for a bright, aromatic touch.

By following these steps and incorporating your own personal touches, you’ll be well on your way to creating an authentic and delicious Chicken Balti that will impress your family and friends.

2. Creamy Coconut Chicken Balti

This version of Chicken Balti features a rich, creamy coconut-based sauce that adds a delightful tropical twist to the classic dish.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, coconut milk, tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder. Mix well and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic and ginger are fragrant.

4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and frozen peas. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes.

5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the curry simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

6. Season the Creamy Coconut Chicken Balti with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh cilantro just before serving.

8. Serve the Creamy Coconut Chicken Balti hot, accompanied by basmati rice, naan bread, or your choice of Indian side dishes.

Variations and Tips

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add a finely chopped fresh chili pepper.
• Substitute the frozen peas with diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and texture.
• Use a combination of chicken breasts and thighs for a mix of lean and juicy meat.
• Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 4 hours) for maximum flavor absorption.
• Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a bright, tropical touch.

This Creamy Coconut Chicken Balti offers a unique and flavorful twist on the classic dish, perfect for those who love the richness of coconut-based curries.

3. Instant Pot Chicken Balti

For those who want to save time without compromising on flavor, this Instant Pot Chicken Balti recipe is a game-changer. The pressure cooker method ensures the chicken stays tender and the spices infuse the dish with maximum impact.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In the inner pot of the Instant Pot, combine the diced chicken, chicken broth, tomato sauce, coconut milk, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder. Stir to mix well.

2. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function on the Instant Pot and set the cooking time to 10 minutes on high pressure.

3. While the chicken is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic and ginger are fragrant.

4. When the Instant Pot timer is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.

5. Stir the sautéed onion, garlic, and ginger mixture into the Instant Pot, along with the diced tomatoes and frozen peas.

6. Select the “Sauté” function on the Instant Pot and let the curry simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

7. Season the Instant Pot Chicken Balti with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh cilantro just before serving.

9. Serve the Instant Pot Chicken Balti hot, accompanied by basmati rice, naan bread, or your choice of Indian side dishes.

Variations and Tips

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add a finely chopped fresh chili pepper.
• Substitute the frozen peas with diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and texture.
• Use a combination of chicken breasts and thighs for a mix of lean and juicy meat.
• Adjust the cooking time in the Instant Pot based on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces.
• Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a bright, tropical touch.

The Instant Pot method makes this Chicken Balti recipe a quick and convenient option for busy weeknights, without sacrificing the authentic flavors of this beloved Indian dish.