The crunchy, spicy, and savory Indian appetizer known as chicken pakora is a favorite among foodies worldwide. This deep-fried delight is a popular starter for parties, teatime snacks, or special events. Bite-sized chicken pieces are coated in a seasoned gram flour batter and fried to golden perfection to create Chicken Pakora, a must-try treat that satisfies all desires.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Crunchy The exterior is flawlessly crispy, while the inside is juicy and tender.
- It only needs a few basic ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
- Infused with aromatic spices that provide a mouthwatering taste.
- This is the perfect snack for a party.
Ingredients for Chicken Pakora To make restaurant-style Chicken Pakora, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 2 tbsp rice flour (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for a lighter texture)
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- Salt to taste
- Water (as needed for batter consistency)
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
- Green chilies (chopped, optional for extra spice)
- Oil for deep frying
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Pakora
Marinate the Chicken : Put the chicken pieces in a bowl with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, lemon juice, and salt. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Prepare the batter : In another bowl, mix together the gram flour, rice flour, yogurt, carom seeds, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and baking soda. To make the batter thick and smooth, mix in the water a little at a time.
Dress the chicken : Make careful to completely coat each piece of marinated chicken by tossing it into the batter.
Heat the oil : Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat as the fourth step.
Fry the Chicken : Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry in batches, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Empty and serve :To absorb any leftover oil, place the fried chicken pakoras on paper towels after removing them with a slotted spoon.
Serving Ideas
- Serve the dish hot with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or garlic mayo.
- Garnish with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and fresh coriander.
- Serve with cold soft drink or masala chai for the ultimate experience.
- Delicious Variations of Chicken Pakora** – Spicy Chicken Pakora: Add more green chilies and red chili powder.
Healthier Alternative For a low-oil version, air-fry or bake Chicken Pakoras:
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 200°C (400°F), place coated chicken in the basket, and air-fry for 20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Oven: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.