Introduction
Jamie Oliver’s Pepper Chicken Jalfrezi Traybake is a delicious and easy-to-make Indian-inspired dish that combines the vibrant flavors of spices with tender chicken and colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The traybake method allows for a hassle-free cooking experience, as everything comes together seamlessly in one pan.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken thighs – 1 kg, skinless and boneless
Bell peppers – 2, one red and one green, sliced
Onion – 1, sliced
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 piece, about 5 cm, grated
Curry powder – 2 tablespoons
Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon
Canned chopped tomatoes – 400 g
Coconut milk – 400 ml
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Fresh coriander – a handful, chopped
Salt and pepper – to taste
Prep Time
The preparation time for this delightful dish is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to quickly get everything ready before cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the Pepper Chicken Jalfrezi Traybake is about 45 minutes. This brings the total time to approximately 1 hour, and the recipe serves around 4 to 6 people, making it a perfect option for sharing with loved ones.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
Take 600g of skinless chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large bowl.
Step 3: Add Spices
Sprinkle over 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables
Chop 2 red bell peppers, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 red onion into similar-sized chunks. Add them to the bowl with the chicken.
Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients
Peel and slice 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger and add it to the chicken and vegetables. Also, add 3 crushed garlic cloves and a few fresh green chilies, to taste.
Step 6: Arrange the Mixture
Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in a large baking tray.
Step 7: Create Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together 400g of chopped tomatoes (canned), 2 tablespoons of tomato puree, and a splash of water. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the baking tray with tin foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes.
Step 9: Remove Foil
After 35 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to caramelize and the sauce to thicken.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Once done, remove the tray from the oven. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with rice or bread.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if preferred, but thighs provide a richer flavor.
Note 2: Spice Level
Adjust the number of green chilies based on your preferred spice level.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Note 4: Vegetarian Alternative
For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas or paneer. Adjust cooking time as necessary.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken helps infuse it with flavor and tenderizes the meat, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Traybaking
Using a traybake method allows for even cooking and easy cleanup, as all ingredients can be cooked in one pan.
Stir-frying
Quickly stir-frying the vegetables ensures they retain their crunch and vibrant color, adding texture and freshness to the dish.
Layering flavors
Building flavors by cooking aromatics and spices before adding other ingredients creates a complex and rich taste profile.
Monitoring cooking time
Carefully monitoring the cooking time ensures that the chicken is cooked through while keeping the vegetables crisp and vibrant.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins such as beef, lamb, or tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for convenient meals throughout the week.
What can I serve with this dish?
This pepper chicken jalfrezi traybake pairs well with rice, naan, or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or protein alternatives like chickpeas or paneer.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili used or omitting it altogether for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
The Pepper Chicken Jalfrezi Traybake is a delightful one-pan dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. With its tender chicken, colorful peppers, and a rich, spicy sauce, this recipe offers a convenient and satisfying meal that brings the warmth of Indian spices to your kitchen. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it is both easy to prepare and full of flavor, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore new culinary horizons.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Jalfrezi
A wonderful vegetarian alternative that incorporates a medley of seasonal vegetables in a similar spiced sauce.
Butter Chicken Traybake
A creamy and indulgent dish featuring tender chicken morsels cooked in a rich tomato and butter sauce, served over rice or naan.
Spicy Chickpea Curry
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Lentil Dhal
A delicious and healthy option made with lentils and a variety of spices, perfect as a side or main, paired nicely with rice.
Paneer Tikka Skewers
Marinated cubes of paneer grilled to perfection, these skewers make for a flavorful appetizer or side dish.
Chicken Tikka Masala
A classic Indian dish that features marinated chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato sauce, ideal with steamed basmati rice.
Mango Chutney
A sweet and tangy condiment that pairs perfectly with Indian dishes, adding a delightful burst of flavor to any meal.
Garlic Naan Bread
Soft and fluffy flatbread that complements any curry dish, great for scooping up sauces and flavors.