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Crispy Chicken Pakora Recipe


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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Description

Crispy Chicken Pakora is a popular Indian snack made with marinated boneless chicken pieces, coated in a chickpea flour batter, and deep-fried to a golden, crunchy perfection. These flavorful fritters are perfect for serving as appetizers or snacks, especially with a tangy chutney.


Ingredients

  1. 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
    2 tablespoons yogurt
    1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
    1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
    1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
    1 teaspoon garam masala
    1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
    1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
    1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Salt, to taste
    1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
    1 tablespoon rice flour (for extra crispiness)
    1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain) or cumin seeds (optional)
    1 teaspoon coriander powder
    1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
    Salt, to taste
    Water, as needed to make a thick batter
    Fresh coriander or mint leaves, chopped (optional, for added flavor)
    Oil for deep frying

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces, yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, lemon juice, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).

  1. Prepare the Pakora Batter: In a separate bowl, combine chickpea flour, rice flour, baking powder, carom seeds, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Gradually add water until you get a thick, sticky batter. Optional: Add chopped fresh coriander or mint for added flavor.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Dip each marinated chicken piece into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off excess batter to maintain an even coating.
  3. Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. To test the temperature, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately without burning.
  4. Fry the Pakoras: Fry the pakoras in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  5. Drain and Serve: Remove the pakoras and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Notes

  1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, or spinach for a vegetarian pakora.
  2. Spicy Version: Add more green chilies or chili flakes to the marinade and batter for extra heat.
  3. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a crispy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg