Ready-to-Use Marinated Chicken Chunks

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Cut the boneless chicken into small cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

Add salt (1 tsp), chilli flakes (1 tsp), red chilli powder (0.5 tsp), National tikka masala (1 tsp), cumin powder (1 tsp), coriander powder (0.5 tsp), yellow food colour (1 pinch), vinegar (2 tbsp), chilli sauce (1 tbsp), and oil (1 tbsp) to the chicken. Mix thoroughly with gloved hands until all chicken pieces are well coated with the spices. Let the marinated chicken rest for at least one hour for best results.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan. Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan and spread it evenly.

Step 4: Add Yogurt and Simmer

Add 5 tablespoons of yogurt to the chicken. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 4-5 minutes on medium heat to allow the chicken to tenderize and release its juices.

Step 5: Reduce Liquid

Uncover the pan and increase the heat to high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid from the yogurt has evaporated and the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.

Step 6: Smoke Chicken

Once the liquid has dried and the chicken is cooked, turn off the flame. Create a small space in the center of the chicken and place a small metal bowl there. Place a hot, burning piece of charcoal in the bowl and pour a few drops of oil over it to create smoke. Immediately cover the pan with a lid for a few minutes to infuse a rich smoky flavor into the chicken.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Remove the charcoal bowl from the pan. Allow the chicken chunks to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight bag or container and freeze for up to one month for future use.

Step 8: Serve or Use in Dishes

These ready-to-use chicken chunks can be reheated and used in various dishes such as sandwiches, pasta, pizza toppings, paratha rolls, or other recipes as desired.

• Adding oil during marination helps the spices adhere better to the chicken.

• Yogurt and vinegar are crucial for making the chicken soft and juicy, do not skip them.

• Smoking the chicken with charcoal adds a rich, authentic flavor.

• These chicken chunks can be frozen in an airtight bag for up to one month.

• You can customize the spices according to your preference; even just salt and tikka masala can be used for marination.