Hairy Bikers Chicken Balti Recipe
Make dinner exciting with this Hairy Bikers Chicken Balti Recipe! Loaded with chicken, tomatoes, onions, and spices, this easy curry is warm, rich, and perfect for sharing.
Equipment
- Large frying pan or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press (optional)
- Grater (for fresh ginger)
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 400 g canned chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water or chicken stock
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 green chili optional, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
- Start by heating the oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough to gently sizzle when ingredients are added, but not smoking.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
- Add the chopped onions and cook for about 6–8 minutes until soft and lightly golden. This step is crucial because it builds the base flavor of the curry.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. At this stage, your kitchen will already start smelling amazing.
Step 4: Add the Spices
- Add garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir continuously for about a minute. This helps release the essential oils in the spices, intensifying their flavor.
Step 5: Add Chicken
- Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat them in the spice mixture. Cook until lightly browned on all sides.
Step 6: Add Tomatoes
- Stir in the tomato paste and canned tomatoes. Mix well until everything is combined into a rich, red sauce.
Step 7: Simmer
- Pour in water or stock, reduce heat, and let the curry simmer gently for 15–20 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the chicken will become tender.
Step 8: Final Touches
- Season with salt to taste. Add sliced green chili if you like extra heat. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro.
Step 9: Serve
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Notes
- Always cook spices in oil briefly to unlock their full flavor
- Don’t rush the onions—they should be soft and slightly golden
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best aroma
- Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook