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
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, or spinach for a vegetarian pakora.
- Spicy Version: Add more green chilies or chili flakes to the marinade and batter for extra heat.
- 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