Bhutanese Chilli Chicken

Crispy Chicken Bites in hot tangy chilli sauce

Bhutanese Chilli Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a medley of spices and vegetables, delivering a perfect balance of heat and flavor. This dish is popular in Bhutan and among those who enjoy spicy cuisine. It’s an excellent choice for a hearty meal, often served alongside rice or noodles.

History of Bhutanese Chilli Chicken

Chilli Chicken has an interesting origin that traces back to the bustling city of Calcutta, where it was invented by Chinese restaurateurs. These chefs sought to create a spicy dish that would appeal to Indian palates, resulting in the deliciously bold Chilli Chicken we know today. Over time, this dish has evolved, with every Chinese restaurant across India putting its unique spin on the recipe.

In the late 1960s, Chilli Chicken made its way to Phuentsholing in southern Bhutan, following the popularity of chicken curry. The dish quickly became a favorite among locals, blending seamlessly into Bhutanese cuisine and reflecting the country’s love for bold flavors and spices. Today, Chilli Chicken is a staple in many Bhutanese households and restaurants, symbolizing the cultural exchange between Bhutan and India.

Nutritional Value of Bhutanese Chilli Chicken

Nutrient

Range

Calories

626

Protein

66.7g

Fat

22g

Carbohydrates

42.5g

Fiber

Sodium

Dietary Information and Health Benefits:
Bhutanese Chilli Chicken is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:

High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Vitamins: Ingredients like tomatoes and green chilies provide essential vitamins, including vitamin C and antioxidants.
Metabolism Boost: The capsaicin in chilies can help boost metabolism and may aid in weight management.

How to make Bhutanese Chilli Chicken?

How to Make Bhutanese Chilli Chicken:
Here’s a simple recipe to recreate this flavorful dish at home:

Ingredients for the Marinade:

1 kg chicken, chopped
1 cup corn flour
100 ml milk
2 tbsp oil
2 tbsp chilli powder
1 tbsp garlic and ginger paste
Salt, to taste

Ingredients Required to Make Chicken Chilli:

6 onions, sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
Green chilies, to taste
Chilli sauce, to taste
Tomato ketchup, to taste
3 tbsp oil
Salt, to taste
½ cup water

Preparation Steps:

Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped chicken with corn flour, milk, oil, chilli powder, garlic and ginger paste, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until it is browned and cooked through.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Once the chicken is cooked, add sliced onions and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add green chilies, chilli sauce, and tomato ketchup, mixing well.
- Pour in ½ cup of water to create a sauce, and season with salt to taste.
- Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
- Once the dish is cooked and the sauce has thickened, serve hot with rice or noodles.