Best Ever Chicken Balti

My Go-To Weeknight Winner: Best Ever Chicken Balti

As a busy working mom, time in the kitchen is a precious commodity. I need recipes that are quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious enough to satisfy my family’s picky palates. This Chicken Balti recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a dish I’ve perfected over the years, initially learned from my time working in a bustling gastro pub. The patrons loved it so much, they'd actually call ahead to check if it was on the menu! Even my dad, a notoriously tough food critic, gives this recipe two thumbs up.

What makes this Chicken Balti so special? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The creamy texture, thanks to the Greek yogurt and cream, is unbelievably rich and comforting. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less chili powder. I often make a large batch and freeze individual portions for those nights when I'm truly short on time. It reheats beautifully.

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe holds sentimental value for me. It reminds me of my time working in the pub, the camaraderie with my colleagues, and the satisfaction of creating a dish that brought joy to so many people. It's more than just a meal; it's a piece of my history, now shared with my own family. Each time I make it, I’m transported back to that bustling kitchen, the scent of spices filling the air. And seeing my children's faces light up when they taste it makes it all worthwhile.

The ingredients are simple and readily available. You probably already have most of them in your pantry. This makes it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends. I often serve it with fluffy boiled rice and warm naan bread, but it’s also fantastic with roti or even a simple side salad. The possibilities are endless!

Beyond the Recipe: This Chicken Balti isn't just a quick and easy dinner; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. It’s a recipe that has stood the test of time, evolving with my life and becoming a staple in my family's culinary repertoire. The ease of preparation allows me to spend more quality time with my family, rather than being stuck in the kitchen all evening. It's a reminder that the best meals are often the simplest ones, full of flavor and love.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I’m confident it will become a new family favorite, just as it has for mine. Let me know in the comments how it turns out! I’d love to hear your feedback and any modifications you make.

Tips and Variations:

• For a spicier Balti, add more chili powder or a few finely chopped green chilies.
• If you don't have mango chutney, you can substitute with a different fruit chutney or even a touch of apricot jam.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the Balti, such as diced onions, peppers, or peas.
• For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

This recipe truly is a keeper—a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Give it a try and see for yourself why it's become a family favorite!

Step-by-step

• Blend together the tomato puree, yoghurt, garam masala, chili powder, garlic, mango chutney, salt and sugar.
• Heat oil and add tomato mixture—cook for approx 2 minutes—stirring occasionally.
• Add chopped chicken and a little cold water, and continue to cook until chicken is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
• Add chilies, coriander and cream, stir in well and cook for a few minutes more.
• If the sauce is a little thick just add water to achieve your preferred consistency.
• Serve with boiled rice and/or naan bread.