Zafrani Chicken is a sumptuous and aromatic dish that brings the essence of Mughlai cuisine to your table. This recipe features tender chicken breast fillets marinated in a blend of yoghurt, garlic, ginger, and a hint of saffron, imparting a golden hue and a rich, luxurious flavour.
About the Recipe
Zafrani Chicken’s rich blend of exotic spices and creamy textures stands out. Saffron gives it a unique aroma and colour, while the cashew nut paste adds a decadent creaminess. This recipe is rooted in Mughlai cuisine, which is known for its abundant dishes. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating a family meal, it offers a taste of royal Indian flavours. Pair it with rice, roti, or naan for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love Zafrani Chicken for its rich, luxurious flavours and creamy texture. The saffron and cashew paste create a unique and aromatic experience, making it a standout dish. The marination process ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the cooking method is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks. This dish tastes incredible and adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
Zafrani Chicken
Cooking Tips
To get the best results:
- Ensure the saffron is diluted adequately in warm water before adding it to the chicken mixture.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the paste, enhancing the flavour.
- When cooking the chicken, maintain a medium flame to avoid burning the spices and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste before adding the cashew nut paste.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serve Zafrani Chicken hot with rice, roti, or naan. This dish serves four and takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain its creamy texture.
Other Similar Recipes
If you enjoy Zafrani Chicken, you might also like Chicken Korma, Butter Chicken, and Chicken Biryani.
Nutrient Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Saffron contains antioxidants and has been linked to mood enhancement. Cashews provide healthy fats and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
Zafrani Chicken
Ingredients
- 750 gms Chicken Breast Fillet
- 4 tbsp Yogurt
- 2 tbsp Garlic Paste
- 1 tbsp Ginger Paste
- 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1 Pinch Saffron
- 6 tbsp Cashew Nut Paste
- 5 tbsp Cooking Oil
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 6 Cloves
- 1 Medium Onion (ground to paste)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Mix chicken with yoghurt, half the ginger-garlic paste, salt, and red chilli powder.
- Dilute saffron in 1 tbsp of warm water and add to the chicken mixture.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a thick-bottomed pan over medium flame.
- Add bay leaves, cloves, and onion paste. Stir-fry for 4 minutes.
- Add remaining ginger-garlic paste and marinated chicken.
- Cook until the chicken is done, then turn off the flame.
- Stir in the cashew nut paste.
- Serve hot with rice, roti, or naan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Zafrani Chicken unique?
Zafrani Chicken stands out because it uses saffron, which imparts a distinct aroma and golden colour. Combined with a decadent cashew paste, it creates a luxurious, creamy texture that sets it apart from other chicken dishes. This recipe also includes a blend of traditional spices that enhance the overall flavour, making it a royal treat suitable for special occasions.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast fillets?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Due to their higher fat content, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Ensure they are boneless and skinless for best results. The cooking time might need to be adjusted slightly, as thighs can take longer to cook through than breast fillets.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover Zafrani Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can add a splash of water or milk to maintain the creamy consistency. Please avoid using the microwave, as it can cause the chicken to dry out.
What can I serve with Zafrani Chicken?
Zafrani Chicken pairs well with steamed basmati rice, soft roti, or buttery naan. You can also serve the dish with a cucumber raita or a simple green salad to balance the dish’s richness. For a more elaborate meal, consider adding dishes like chicken korma or butter chicken.
1 comment
its mind blowing