Description
Chicken Cafreal is a Goan classic featuring juicy chicken marinated in a bold green spice blend of coriander, mint, chilies, and aromatic spices. Pan-seared to perfection, it’s spicy, tangy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: 2 pounds – Bone-in pieces stay juicy and flavorful.
- Fresh Coriander Leaves: 1 cup, packed – Brings freshness and green color.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: 1/2 cup – Adds brightness and coolness.
- Green Chilies: 4, chopped – For spicy kick and zesty aroma.
- Garlic Cloves: 6 – Deep earthy flavor foundation.
- Ginger: 1-inch piece – Provides warm sharpness.
- Onion: 1 small, chopped – Balances spice with natural sweetness.
- Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon – Adds nutty depth.
- Coriander Seeds: 1 teaspoon – Strengthens the herbal profile.
- Cinnamon Stick: 1 small piece – Subtle warmth and complexity.
- Cloves: 3 – Intense, spicy touch.
- Black Peppercorns: 1/2 teaspoon – Enhances heat and aroma.
- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon – Earthy tone and golden hint.
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons – Tang and meat tenderizer.
- White Vinegar: 1 tablespoon – Bright acidity to balance richness.
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons – Essential for seasoning.
- Oil: 2 tablespoons – For pan-frying to golden perfection.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 375°F or heat skillet on medium flame.
- Combine Ingredients: Blend coriander, mint, chilies, garlic, ginger, onion, spices, lime juice, vinegar, and salt into a smooth green paste.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Place chicken in bowl or bag, add marinade, coat well, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
- Assemble the Dish: Remove from fridge 20 minutes before cooking. Heat oil in pan and shake off excess marinade.
- Cook to Perfection: Sear chicken on both sides until browned, cover and cook through for about 20–25 minutes, basting with marinade.
- Finishing Touches: Rest for 5 minutes, squeeze fresh lime juice, garnish with coriander.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve with potatoes, rice, or bread, and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for best flavor depth.
- Cook on medium to avoid burning the green paste.
- Use bone-in cuts for juicy results and richer taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Goan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg