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Experience flavour like never before with this Green Chicken recipe. Also known as Hariyali Chicken or Hara Masala Chicken, this stovetop sensation boasts natural flavours sans artificial colours. With heaps of fresh cilantro, fiery chillies, aromatic shallots, and garlic — get ready to be wowed!
As a dietitian, I’ve witnessed the increasing demand for high-protein recipes. They’re not just favoured for crafting diabetes-friendly meals but also for satisfying cravings and catering to family-friendly dining.
Now, let’s delve into some flavorful creations that have become my family’s favourites. First up, our go-to Tandoori Salmon Fish Tikka with Green Chutney never fails to please. And if you’re a fan of curry, you’ll love the comforting simplicity of my Cod Fish Curry.
Nutrition highlights
This healthy Indian Chicken recipe is a nutritional gem, featuring:
- Fresh cilantro, brimming with antioxidants.
- Lean protein from the chicken, essential for muscle health.
- Aromatic garlic and shallots, for potential immune-supporting properties.
Ingredients
Hara masala (green chicken marinade)
Green masala (or marinade) is made of a variety of fresh herbs and aromatics, typically including:
- Fresh Cilantro (including stems)
- Green Chillies (hot)
- Fresh Garlic
- Shallots
- Lime Juice and zest
- Water
- Sea salt
Chicken
- Chicken breast
- Extra virgin olive oil
The chicken is generously coated with the vibrant chicken lime cilantro marinade before being pan-fried to perfection in oil. Plus, the vibrant flavours are intensified as it cooks.
How to make it
Hara masala (green chicken marinade)
Remember to scrape down the sides regularly. Exercise patience and resist the temptation to add extra water, as it may result in an overly runny consistency.
Preparing chicken
Marinating chicken
Frying chicken
Serve with Homemade Soft Roti and Cabbage Poriyal to create a balanced plate.
For a complete list of ingredient measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, you can find everything you need in the printable recipe card located at the bottom of this post.
Tip for the Beginner Cook
Invest in a good-quality meat thermometer. It’s an invaluable tool for ensuring that your chicken is cooked through without being overdone. Also, this helps avoid the risk of foodborne illness while ensuring that your dish is perfectly cooked and delicious every time.
Substitution notes
In the event of ingredient unavailability or dietary preferences, here are some substitution options to consider:
- Cilantro: Swap with fresh parsley or a combination of mint and basil for a different flavour profile.
- Chicken: Substitute with tofu, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Shallots and Garlic: Replace with onion powder or garlic powder for a milder taste, or omit for a simpler flavour profile.
- Green Chilies: Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference or substitute with jalapeños for a similar heat level.
Food safe storage
For optimal food storage, consider the following tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If planning to freeze, portion the cooked chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove any excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Labeling: Always label the containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Rate it, drop a comment or snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @DesiliciousRD. Seeing your creations always brings a smile to my face.
Get the Recipe:
How To Make Stovetop Green Chicken (Hariyali Chicken)
Video
Ingredients
Hara Masala (Marinade)
- 1 bunch cilantro, 100 grams, washed and dried, leaves and stems, roughly torn
- 3 shallots, large
- 7 cloves garlic, large
- 3 green chillies, hot
- 1 lime, large, juice
- ½ tsp lime zezt
- 1 tsp salt, sea salt
- 2 tbsp water
Chicken
- 3 chicken breasts, skinless, boneless, 830 grams, cut into large pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin
Equipment
- 1 blender high speed
Instructions
Hara Masala (Marinade)
- Start by adding cilantro (roughly torn for easier blending), chillies, garlic, shallots, salt, lime zest, and juice to a blender. Use your blender's tamper to break down the ingredients.
- Add 2 tablespoons of water and continue blending to a smooth consistency. Scrape down the sides as needed. Be patient and avoid adding extra water to prevent a runny consistency.
- Transfer the hara masala to an airtight container or jar and store it in the refrigerator.
Chicken
- Pour half a cup of the marinade over the chicken pieces, saving the remainder in an airtight container in the fridge for later use. Ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade by mixing well. Refrigerate the chicken to marinate for two days.
- In an extra-large pan, heat oil. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the pan and cook over high heat.
- Flip each piece frequently to achieve even cooking and golden-brown char. Fry over high heat for 15-17 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. Adjust the heat as needed as the moisture evaporates.
- Turn off the heat, add the remaining hara masala (marinade) and mix well to coat the pieces. Serve immediately.
Notes
Food safe storage
- Refrigeration: Store the cooked Green Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If planning to freeze, portion the cooked chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove any excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Labeling: Always label the containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness.
- Thawing: When ready to consume, thaw frozen Green Chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the Green Chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Substitution notes
- Cilantro: Swap with fresh parsley or a combination of mint and basil for a different flavour profile.
- Chicken: Substitute with tofu, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Shallots and Garlic: Replace with onion powder or garlic powder for a milder taste, or omit for a simpler flavour profile.
- Green Chilies: Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference or substitute with jalapeños for a similar heat level.
Nutrition Information:
Keep in mind that the nutritional values provided are approximations and suggestions, and might fluctuate depending on ingredient variations, portion sizes, and recipe adjustments. This nutrition facts table cannot account for your individual needs. Your body — including your hunger and satiety cues — change daily. It’s perfectly fine to eat more or less on different days. Instead of letting food guilt take over, consider mindful eating.
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
