Chicken Pakoda Recipe | How to Make Chicken Pakoda

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Chicken Pakoda is a popular and delicious Indian snack that has won the hearts of food lovers across the globe. These delicious dishes are the epitome of a rainy day snack with a cup of tea or used during celebrations.

In this article, I will take you step by step on how to make delicious Chicken Pakodas at home.

What is Chicken Pakoda?

Chicken Pakodas are small fritters made from tender pieces of chicken, marinated in a mixture of spices, and coated in a spicy gram flour batter. The marination process infuses the chicken with rich flavor, and when it is deep fried to perfection, the gram flour coating gives the chicken a delightful crispiness.

Ingredients Required

To make delicious Chicken Pakodas, you will need the following ingredients:

Boneless chicken cut into bite-sized pieces
Gram flour (besan)
Rice flour
Ginger-garlic paste
Green chilies, finely chopped
Red chili powder
Turmeric powder
Garam masala
Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Curry leaves
Baking soda
Lemon juice
Salt to taste
Oil for deep frying

How to Make Chicken Pakoda

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, add small-sized chicken pieces.
Add salt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, chopped coriander and curry leaves, and lemon juice to it.
To enhance the taste, mix all the ingredients well and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Batter

In a separate bowl, mix gram flour, rice flour, water, salt, red chili powder, and a little baking soda to make a thick and smooth batter, taking care that no lumps remain in it.

Step 3: Deep Frying the Pakodas

Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai on medium heat.
Dip each marinated chicken piece in the prepared batter and coat evenly.
Carefully put the coated chicken in the hot oil and deep fry till golden brown and crisp.
Fry the pakodas in batches to maintain the temperature of the oil.

Step 4: Serving and Enjoying

When the chicken pakoda are fried well, take them out from the oil and keep them on absorbent paper so that excess oil drains out.
Serve hot and crispy pakoras with a cup of hot tea along with green chutney or ketchup for a delightful experience.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Pakoda

Make sure the chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces for even frying.
The marination time is essential, as it imparts depth to the flavor of the chicken.
Adding a little rice flour to the batter increases the crispiness of the pakodas.
Fry the pakoras on medium heat only so that they get cooked evenly without becoming too oily.

Variations to Try

While the classic chicken pakoda is enjoyable on its own, you can explore some exciting variations to add your own creative touch. Here are a few ideas:

Cheese Stuffed Chicken pakodas: For a cheese surprise, stuff a small cube of cheese inside the marinated chicken before coating it in the batter.
Spicy Peri-Peri pakodas: Sprinkle peri-peri seasoning or sauce on fried pakodas to give them a tangy and tangy taste.

A Brief History of Pakodas

Pakodas have a rich history that dates back centuries. Originating in the Indian subcontinent, these fried snacks have been part of traditional culinary practices for generations. They were introduced during the Mughal era and have since evolved into various regional specialties, each with its unique blend of spices and ingredients.

Health Benefits of Chicken Pakodas

While Chicken Pakodas are undoubtedly a delicious treat, moderation is key due to their deep-fried nature. However, the spices used in the marinade offer health benefits, such as improved digestion, anti-inflammatory properties, and an excellent source of protein from the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for Pakodas?

While boneless chicken is preferred for ease of eating, you can use bone-in chicken with longer cooking times to ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly.

Q2: Can I make the batter in advance?

It is best to prepare the batter fresh to retain its texture and ensure crispy pakodas.

Q3: Can I substitute gram flour with any other flour?

Gram flour provides an authentic taste and texture, but you can experiment with other flours like cornflour or chickpea flour.

Q4: How can I reduce the oil absorption in the pakodas?

Ensure the oil is adequately hot before frying the pakodas, and avoid overcrowding the pan during frying.

Q5: Can I store leftover pakodas?

While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for a day or two. Reheat them in the oven for a crispy texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Pakora is a delicious and flavourful snack that brings joy to every occasion. With its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and crispy coating, it is a must-try dish for food lovers. So, the next time you’re craving something tasty and crunchy, whip up a batch of Chicken Pakodas and savor the culinary heritage of India.