Flavorful Chicken Keema Recipe: A Quick & Savory Dish
Looking for a quick, flavorful dish packed with protein and vibrant spices? This chicken keema recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or lunchbox meals. With minced chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables, this dish comes together beautifully in under 30 minutes!
Chicken Keema Nutritional Overview
Chicken keema is not just delicious – it’s also a healthy protein-rich dish that fits into many diets. Minced chicken offers lean protein to support muscle growth, while the addition of vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions brings in essential vitamins and antioxidants.
Total Nutritional Content (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6-8 grams
- Fat: 13 -16 grams
- Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in Vitamin C (from bell peppers), Vitamin A (from tomatoes), and iron (from chicken and spices)
This dish strikes a perfect balance between hearty and healthy, making it ideal for any meal of the day.
Flavorful Chicken Keema Recipe
Equipment
- Deep pan or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
- Lid for pan
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken drained of excess moisture
- 2 medium onions finely chopped
- 1 tomato chopped
- 3 tbsp garlic minced
- 2 tsp ginger finely chopped
- 1½ tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 medium bell pepper (capsicum) diced
- 2 green chilies chopped (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (for mild heat and vibrant color)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
- ½ tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) crushed
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepthe IngredientsEnsure the ground chicken is well-drained to avoid excess liquid during cooking. Finely chop the onions, garlic, ginger, green chilies, bell pepper, and tomato. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process seamless.
- Sauté the AromaticsHeat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. Avoid browning them too much to keep the dish light and flavorful.Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to release the spices’ aromas.
- Boost Flavor with Fresh Ginger & GarlicAdd the minced garlic, ginger, green chilies, and salt to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes while stirring to prevent burning.
- Cook the ChickenAdd the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon to ensure even cooking. Stir to coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Cover the skillet and cook on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken releases its juices.
- Incorporate the VegetablesOnce the chicken has released some moisture, stir in the chopped tomato. Cover again and let it simmer on low heat until the mixture thickens and the liquid is mostly absorbed - about 6-8 more minutes.
- Finish with Bell Pepper & HerbsJust 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the chopped bell pepper and crushed dried fenugreek leaves. Stir gently and let it cook uncovered until the bell pepper softens slightly but retains some crunch.Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- ServeServe the Spiced Chicken Keema hot with your choice of accompaniments - think warm naan, steamed rice, or even as a filling for tacos or lettuce wraps. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad.You can also use it as a stuffing for wraps, sandwiches, or puff pastry.
Chicken Keema Cooking Tips
- Use well-drained chicken mince to avoid excess moisture during cooking.
- Do not skip the kasuri methi – it adds a beautiful finishing aroma and a unique earthy taste.
- For extra richness, you can stir in a spoonful of fresh cream or butter just before serving.
- For extra depth, try adding a pinch of garam masala or smoked paprika toward the end of cooking.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup, especially when cooking with lean meats.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and used the next day as a stuffing for parathas or rolls.
- Adjust spice levels based on your heat preference; Kashmiri chili gives color with less heat. Adjust the number of green chilies or substitute with milder peppers like jalapeños for a less spicy version.
- Swap the chicken for crumbled tofu or lentils for a plant-based version that’s just as flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
- With Bread: Pair with naan, paratha, or pita for a hearty meal.
- With Rice: Serve over fragrant basmati rice or jeera (cumin) rice for a classic combo.
- As a Wrap: Stuff into tortillas or flatbreads with a dollop of yogurt and some crunchy veggies.
- Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce leaves as wraps for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
- Sidekick Salads: A tangy cucumber-onion salad with lemon juice or a kachumber salad complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spiced Chicken Keema is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something bold yet comforting. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable – make it spicy, mild, or veggie-packed to suit your mood!
Fun Variations to Try
- Keema-Stuffed Peppers: Use the keema as a filling for bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Keema Samosas: Wrap the mixture in pastry dough for crispy, savory appetizers.
- Breakfast Keema: Top with a fried egg for a protein-packed breakfast bowl.
- Creamy Keema: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer, saucier version.
See Also – Master Charcoal Cooking: Tips for Perfectly Grilled Meals
Enjoy this bold and comforting chicken keema dish that pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides. It’s perfect for busy days when you need a quick, hearty, and protein-rich meal with minimal effort!
