Name: Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 chicken breasts (about 500g/1.1lbs), chopped into bite-sized chunks; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tbsp sunflower oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 large onion, peeled and sliced; 1 red chilli, sliced; 1 green chilli, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced; 2 tsp minced ginger; 1 tsp garam masala; 2 tsp turmeric; 1 ½ tsp salt; 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 400 g (14 oz) tin chopped tomatoes; 240 ml (1 cup) chicken stock (gluten-free if required); 1 tbsp tomato puree (paste for US); Pilau rice or boiled rice; Fresh coriander; Chilli flakes; Sliced red onion

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 27 reviews

If you want to dive into a vibrant and flavorsome dish that feels like a celebration in every bite, this Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe is your perfect go-to. Packed with the punch of aromatic spices, tender chicken chunks, and a medley of colorful peppers, this curry brings that beloved Indian takeaway experience right to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. It’s spicy, tangy, and comforting — the ideal weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without any hassle.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round plate held by a woman's hand shows five different spices arranged in small piles in a circle around a pile of white salt in the center. Below the plate, a black frying pan on a black stovetop holds cooked yellowish-brown pieces of meat mixed with sliced white onions. The scene is set on a wooden counter next to a pot with a lid, all on a white marbled surface. The woman's nails are painted red, and she wears a dark floral dress. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe uses simple, essential ingredients that marry beautifully to create a rich, textured sauce and a satisfying balance of heat and flavor. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fragrant spices that give the dish its signature warmth to the fresh vegetables that add crunch and color.

Chicken breasts (about 500g/1.1lbs): Bite-sized chunks provide tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the spices perfectly.
Cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala (1 tsp each): A brilliant blend of spices that forms the aromatic base of both the marinade and sauce.
Sunflower oil (1 tbsp) and unsalted butter (2 tbsp): These fats create a luscious cooking medium that enriches the curry’s flavor.
Onion (1 large, sliced): Adds sweetness and a delicate texture as it softens in the pan.
Red and green chillies (1 each, sliced): Deliver lively heat without overpowering the dish.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) and ginger (2 tsp minced): Essentials for that fresh punch and depth in your curry.
Red and green bell peppers (1 each, sliced): Bring crunchy texture plus a vibrant pop of color to the sauce.
Tinned chopped tomatoes (400g/14 oz): The rich tomato base that keeps the curry saucy and slightly tangy.
Chicken stock (240 ml/1 cup): Enhances the sauciness with layers of savory flavor, choose gluten-free if needed.
Tomato puree (1 tbsp): Thickens and intensifies the tomato flavor, making the curry irresistibly rich.
Salt (1 ½ tsp): Balances and enhances all the spices and ingredients.
Fresh coriander: Used at the end for a bright, fragrant finish.

How to Make Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by coating the chicken chunks in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Letting it sit for about 10 minutes in the fridge not only allows the spices to infuse the meat with warm flavors but also tenderizes it slightly to keep every bite soft and delicious.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat sunflower oil and butter in a large frying pan until shimmering. Then add the marinated chicken and sear over high heat for 4 to 5 minutes. This quick, intense cooking locks in the juices and gives the chicken a lovely golden crust, adding texture to the dish.

Step 3: Soften the Onions

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the sliced onions. Stir frequently as they soften gently over 5 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness which balances the spices and adds a silky mouthfeel.

Step 4: Add Chilli, Garlic, and Ginger

Next, toss in the sliced red and green chillies, minced garlic, and ginger. Cooking these aromatics for 2 minutes helps unlock their bold flavors that bring vibrant heat and zest to your curry.

Step 5: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in garam masala, turmeric, salt, cumin, and ground coriander. Stir well to coat the onions and let the spices bloom for a couple more minutes. This step builds layers of warmth, earthiness, and just the right amount of heat.

Step 6: Build the Sauce

Add the red and green bell peppers along with chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, and tomato puree. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let the curry cook gently for 10 minutes so it thickens and the flavors meld beautifully, turning the sauce rich and luscious.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Finally, stir in a handful of fresh coriander for a burst of freshness and herbaceous aroma. The Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe is now ready to be showered over steaming bowls of pilau or boiled rice, topped with extra coriander, chilli flakes, and sliced red onions for that extra kick.

How to Serve Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe

A white bowl filled halfway with bright yellow rice, showing fluffy grain texture, topped with scattered fresh green cilantro leaves. Next to the rice, there is a thick reddish-brown curry with chunks of cooked meat and green bell pepper strips. On top of the curry, thin slices of purple onion and more cilantro leaves are placed, adding a fresh touch. Two pieces of flatbread with toasted brown spots rest against the rice on the side of the bowl. In the blurred background, another white bowl contains a fresh salad with red tomato, green cilantro, and purple onion on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh coriander is a must-have garnish, providing a bright, citrusy contrast to the rich spices. A sprinkle of chilli flakes adds a touch of extra heat, while thinly sliced red onions contribute a satisfying crunch and mild sharpness that rounds out every mouthful.

Side Dishes

Serving your Chicken Jalfrezi alongside fragrant pilau rice or simple boiled rice helps soak up the delicious sauce. For a vibrant spread, consider adding cooling cucumber raita or a crisp salad loaded with fresh veggies to balance the curry’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the jalfrezi in warm naan bread pockets or as part of a curry platter with several other Indian dishes. You can even spoon it over roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting fusion option that elevates this classic Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Jalfrezi keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to two days. Store it in an airtight container immediately after it cools to maintain the freshness of the spices and the tender texture of the chicken.

Freezing

You can freeze this Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe without losing its vibrant flavors. Once cooled, transfer it into freezer-friendly containers with tight lids. It’s perfect for prepping meals in advance or saving time on busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the curry in a pan over medium heat until steaming hot throughout. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to coax the flavors back to life. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the peppers crisp and chicken tender.

FAQs

Is this Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe very spicy?

The heat level can easily be adjusted by varying the amount of chilli added. For a milder curry, reduce or omit the fresh chillies. It’s all about customizing the spice to suit your taste.

Can I substitute chicken with a different protein?

Absolutely! Lamb is a great alternative but will require a longer cooking time to become tender. You can also use tofu or paneer for a vegetarian version by swapping the chicken stock for vegetable stock.

How long does it take to prepare and cook this recipe?

This Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe is wonderfully quick, with just 5 minutes prep, 10 minutes marinating, and around 25 minutes cooking, making it a fantastic option for a tasty dinner when you’re short on time.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free chicken stock and check that your spices do not contain additives. It’s a safe and flavorful choice for those avoiding gluten.

Can I make Chicken Jalfrezi ahead of time?

Definitely. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld. Simply cool, cover, and refrigerate for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe that makes it a beloved dish in many homes. It’s quick, packed with flavors, and the colorful ingredients make it a joy to cook and eat. If you’re up for a vibrant, spicy curry that’s easy to whip up any night of the week, give this recipe a try — I promise it will become one of your favorites just like it is mine!