Delicious Banjara Chicken Recipes | From Tikka to Curry

7 min readFeb 4, 2024

Explore the world of Banjara Chicken recipes with our delightful recipes from mouthwatering tikka and kebabs to aromatic curry and masala. Discover the origin and calories that treat your taste buds to a culinary journey with the rich flavors of chicken banjara.

Table of Contents

Chicken Banjara Origin

The term “Banjara” refers to the Banjara community, traditionally known for their nomadic lifestyle in India. The flavors in this recipe are inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Banjaras people.

Enjoy the delightful taste of Banjara chicken in various forms, from tikka and kebabs to curry and masala!

Gallery Delicious Banjara Chicken

Ingredients

500g boneless chicken, cut into bite sized pieces
1 cup yogurt
2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon red chili powder
1 tablespoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For Banjara Chicken Tikka

1/ In a bowl, mix yogurt ginger garlic paste red chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt to create the marinade.

2/ Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor absorption.

3/ Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Skewer the marinated chicken pieces and place them on a baking tray.

4/ Brush the chicken with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the edges.

For Banjara Chicken Kebab

1/ Follow the same marination process as mentioned above for Chicken Tikka.

2/ Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill them on a barbecue or grill pan until they are cooked and have a smoky flavor.

For Banjara Chicken Curry

1/ Heat oil in a pan, add the marinated chicken, and cook until it’s browned.

2/ In the same pan, add a cup of water and let it simmer until the chicken is tender and the curry thickens.

3/ Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot with rice or naan.

For Banjara Chicken Masala

1/ In a pan, heat oil and sauté the marinated chicken until browned.

2/ Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft.

3/ Stir in a teaspoon of masala (if available) or a blend of garam masala for an extra burst of flavor.

For Banjara Chicken Mandi

1/ Prepare Banjara Chicken Curry as mentioned above.

2/ Serve the curry over fragrant basmati rice to create a delicious Chicken Mandi Banjara.

Tips and Tricks to Enhance Your Chicken Banjara Cooking Experience

Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for an extended period (preferably overnight) to ensure the spices penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Yogurt Perfection: Choose thick and creamy yogurt for the marinade. It not only adds a tangy flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and succulent.

Char it Right: For Chicken Banjara Tikka and Kebabs, achieving a perfect char is key. Use a hot grill or oven, and baste the chicken with oil for that appealing smoky flavor.

Spice Sensation: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Add more red chili powder for extra heat or reduce it for a milder taste. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Freshness Matters: Use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to ginger, garlic, and coriander leaves. Fresh herbs and spices elevate the overall taste of the dish.

Play with Presentation: Garnish your Chicken Banjara with a generous sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and added freshness. A squeeze of lemon just before serving enhances the flavors.

Banjara Masala Magic: If you have access to Banjara masala, consider incorporating it into your recipe for an authentic touch. Alternatively, a blend of garam masala can be used for a similar flavor profile.

Rice Pairing: When serving Chicken Banjara Curry or Mandi, pair it with fragrant basmati rice to complement the robust flavors. You can also serve it with naan or roti for a delightful meal.

Calorie-Conscious Choices: If you’re watching your calorie intake, opt for grilling or baking methods instead of frying. Use lean cuts of chicken for a healthier Chicken Banjara experience.

Experiment and Enjoy: Feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your taste buds. Cooking is an art, and adding your unique touch can make the dish even more special.

Follow these tips and tricks to master the art of preparing Banjara Chicken in various forms, and savor the delightful results!

Nutrition Facts

It’s challenging to provide precise nutrition facts without specific quantities and ingredients. However, I can offer an approximate overview based on common ingredients used in Banjara Chicken recipes:

Banjara Chicken Tikka (per serving):

Calories: 200–250 kcal
Protein: 25–30g
Carbohydrates: 5–10g
Fat: 8–12g

Banjara Chicken Curry (per serving):

Calories: 250–300 kcal
Protein: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 15–20g
Fat: 10–15g

Banjara Chicken Kebab (per serving):

Calories: 200–250 kcal
Protein: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 5–10g
Fat: 10–12g

These are rough estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods. Always consider individual dietary needs and adjust accordingly.

(FAQs) — Banjara Chicken

1. What is Banjara Chicken?

Banjara Chicken is a flavorful Indian dish inspired by the culinary traditions of the Banjara community. It features marinated chicken cooked to perfection, offering a blend of aromatic spices and rich flavors.

2. What is the origin of Banjara Chicken?

The term “Banjara” refers to the Banjara community, known for their nomadic lifestyle in India. Banjara Chicken draws inspiration from their culinary heritage, showcasing a unique combination of spices.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken for Banjara Chicken recipes?

For optimal flavor absorption, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. However, overnight marination in the refrigerator is recommended for the best results.

4. Can I use chicken with bones for Banjara Chicken recipes?

While boneless chicken is commonly used, you can certainly use chicken with bones. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

5. Are there any alternatives to Banjara masala for the Chicken Masala recipe?

If Banjara masala is not available, you can use a blend of garam masala as an alternative. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

6. What is the calorie content of Banjara Chicken Kebabs?

The caloric content may vary, but as a general guide, one serving of Banjara Chicken Kebabs can contain approximately 250–300 calories. This makes it a delicious yet moderate-calorie option.

7. Can I grill Banjara Chicken instead of baking or frying?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor to Banjara Chicken Tikka and Kebabs. Ensure the grill is hot and baste the chicken with oil for a delightful char.

8. What is the best way to serve Banjara Chicken Curry?

Banjara Chicken Curry pairs well with rice or naan. The aromatic curry complements fragrant basmati rice, creating a delightful combination.

9. Can I customize the spice level in Banjara Chicken recipes?

Yes, you can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the quantity of red chili powder in the marinade. Add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder taste.

10. Are there vegetarian alternatives to Banjara Chicken?

While Banjara Chicken is a meat-based dish, you can explore vegetarian alternatives by substituting chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or vegetables. Adjust the marination and cooking times accordingly.