If you’re looking to break away from the usual chicken curries and fries, Chicken Thoran is a must-try! This Kerala-style dry chicken dish is packed with flavor, combining tender chicken pieces with aromatic spices, grated coconut, and a hint of heat. It’s quick to prepare, easy to make, and perfect for a wholesome meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the flavors of Kerala to your kitchen!
What is Chicken Thoran?
Chicken Thoran is a traditional Kerala dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful delight. Unlike creamy curries, Thoran is a dry preparation where chicken is cooked with spices, onions, and grated coconut. The result is a dish that’s light yet bursting with flavor, making it an excellent accompaniment to rice, roti, or even as a standalone dish.
Ingredients for Chicken Thoran (Serves 4)
Here’s what you’ll need:
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500 grams boneless chicken (or chicken with bones, cut into small pieces)
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3 tablespoons coconut oil
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¼ teaspoon mustard seeds
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½-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
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6 garlic cloves, chopped
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1-2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
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10 small onions (shallots), sliced
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2 sprigs of curry leaves
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1 large onion, sliced
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¾ teaspoon salt (divided)
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¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
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1½ teaspoons red chili powder (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon garam masala (or 1 teaspoon chicken masala)
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¼ cup grated coconut
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½ teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
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Clean and cut the chicken into small pieces. If using boneless chicken, ensure it’s cut into bite-sized chunks.
2. Heat the Coconut Oil
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Heat a pan or kadai and add 3 tablespoons of coconut oil.
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Once the oil is hot, add ¼ teaspoon mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
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Reduce the flame to medium and add the chopped ginger, garlic, green chilies, small onions, and curry leaves.
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Sauté until the small onions turn golden brown.
4. Add the Onions and Spices
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Add the sliced large onion and ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté for 5 minutes until the onions soften.
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Add ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1½ teaspoons red chili powder, and ½ teaspoon garam masala. Mix well and cook for 1 minute.
5. Cook the Chicken
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Add the chicken pieces and ¾ teaspoon of salt. Increase the flame to high and stir continuously for 3 minutes.
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Cover the pan and cook on medium flame for 10 minutes.
6. Add Grated Coconut
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After 10 minutes, open the lid and stir. The chicken will have released its moisture.
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Cover and cook for another 8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the water evaporates.
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Add ¼ cup of grated coconut, spread it evenly, and cook covered for 2 more minutes.
7. Final Touches
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Open the lid and mix everything well. Gently press the chicken pieces to break them slightly.
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Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes dry and attains a Thoran-like consistency.
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Add ½ teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper and mix well for 1 minute.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
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Transfer the Chicken Thoran to a serving dish.
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Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or appam for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Thoran
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Use Fresh Coconut: Freshly grated coconut enhances the flavor. If unavailable, use unsweetened desiccated coconut.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your taste.
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Don’t Overcook: Ensure the chicken remains tender and doesn’t dry out completely.
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Experiment with Bones: Chicken with bones adds extra flavor, but boneless works just as well.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Chicken Thoran is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spices, coconut, and tender chicken creates a delightful balance of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a great way to introduce a new chicken recipe to your repertoire!
Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of the same old chicken dishes, give this Chicken Thoran recipe a try. It’s simple, flavorful, and brings a touch of Kerala to your dining table. Don’t forget to share your feedback and suggestions in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Until next time, keep experimenting with flavors and enjoying the magic of home-cooked meals. Cheers! 🎵
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