MURGH CHANA

Murgh Chana: A Unique and Simple Recipe for a Hearty Chicken and Chickpea Delight

Murgh Chana, a flavorful and nutritious dish made with chicken (murgh) and chickpeas (chana), is a beloved classic in South Asian cuisine. It combines tender chicken pieces with protein-packed chickpeas, cooked together in a rich and aromatic gravy. This dish offers a delightful mix of flavors from earthy spices, tangy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs. Ideal as a main course, Murgh Chana can be served with rice, naan, or roti, making it a versatile and wholesome meal. In this article, we’ll explore a unique and simple Murgh Chana recipe that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients You Will Need

For this Murgh Chana recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 500 grams (about 1 lb) of boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (you can also use bone-in pieces if preferred)
• 1 cup boiled chickpeas (canned chickpeas are convenient, but you can also soak dried chickpeas overnight and cook them until tender)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped or pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt, whisked
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
• Salt to taste

Spices for the dish:

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

Steps to Make Murgh Chana

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   Begin by preparing the chicken and chickpeas. If you are using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then cook them in salted water until tender (around 45 minutes). If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them well. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Heat 3 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and bay leaf, letting them sizzle for a few seconds to release their aroma. Next, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell of the ginger and garlic fades.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices
   Stir in the chopped or pureed tomatoes, followed by the turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Mix well and cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes are fully cooked, and the oil starts to separate from the masala. This step is crucial for developing the base flavor of the dish.
4. Incorporate the Chicken Pieces
   Add the chicken pieces to the pan and stir them into the tomato and spice mixture. Cook the chicken on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. The chicken should start to brown slightly and absorb the flavors of the spices. At this point, you can add salt according to your taste.
5. Add the Chickpeas and Simmer the Dish
   Once the chicken is partially cooked, add the boiled chickpeas to the pan. Stir well to coat the chickpeas with the spice mixture. Lower the heat and cover the pan, letting the dish simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the chicken to become tender.
6. Add the Yogurt and Final Spices
   Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the whisked yogurt. Adding yogurt gives the dish a creamy texture and adds a hint of tanginess. Stir continuously while adding the yogurt to avoid curdling. Once the yogurt is fully incorporated, sprinkle the garam masala over the dish and give it a final mix.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Turn off the heat and garnish the Murgh Chana with freshly chopped coriander leaves. This adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve the dish hot with your choice of rice, naan, or roti.

Variations and Tips

• Add Some Heat: If you prefer a spicier version, you can add extra green chilies or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the dish. Alternatively, you can drizzle some hot sauce or green chutney over the top when serving.
• Make It Creamier: For a creamier texture, add a few tablespoons of cream or coconut milk towards the end of the cooking process. This will create a richer gravy that pairs well with naan or rice.
• Use Bone-in Chicken for More Flavor: While boneless chicken cooks quickly and is easier to eat, using bone-in chicken adds more depth to the flavor of the dish. The bones release more flavor into the gravy, making it even more delicious.
• Healthy Substitutions: You can use olive oil instead of ghee for a lighter option, or opt for low-fat yogurt to reduce the fat content. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can use low-sodium chickpeas and adjust the salt levels accordingly.
• Bulk It Up with Vegetables: You can also add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or diced carrots to the dish for extra nutrition. The vegetables can be added along with the chickpeas for a more wholesome meal.

Why Murgh Chana is a Great Dish

Murgh Chana is a wonderful choice for those who seek a meal that is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Here are a few reasons why this dish stands out:

1. High Protein Content
   The combination of chicken and chickpeas makes Murgh Chana a protein powerhouse. Chicken provides lean animal protein, while chickpeas offer plant-based protein and fiber. Together, they create a balanced dish that helps keep you full and energized.
2. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
   Chickpeas are rich in dietary fiber, iron, and folate, while chicken adds essential vitamins such as B6 and niacin. The spices used in the dish, including turmeric and cumin, have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
3. Easy to Prepare
   This recipe is straightforward and requires only basic cooking skills. With minimal preparation, you can create a dish that’s impressive enough for guests or suitable for a cozy weeknight dinner.
4. Versatile and Customizable
   Murgh Chana is adaptable to different dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Whether you want to add more vegetables, make it spicier, or tone down the heat, this dish accommodates various preferences.

Conclusion

Murgh Chana is an easy-to-make and versatile dish that beautifully marries the flavors of chicken, chickpeas, and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for anyone who appreciates hearty meals that are both nutritious and delicious. This simple recipe will guide you through creating a dish that bursts with flavor, making it a must-try for your home cooking repertoire. So, give it a try, and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!