Chicken Resha Daal is a delightful fusion of tender shredded chicken with a rich, creamy lentil base. This dish combines the goodness of protein-packed lentils and succulent chicken, making it a wholesome and hearty meal. It is often served with rice or flatbread and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Below is a breakdown of the recipe under eight main headings.
Table Of Content
This dish combines the goodness of protein-packed lentils and succulent chicken, making it a wholesome and hearty meal.Chicken Resha Daal It is often served with rice or flatbread and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Below is a breakdown of the recipe under eight main headings.
Ingredients
- 250g chicken (boiled and shredded)
- 1 cup split red lentils (Masoor dal)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 green chilies (slit)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 4 cups water (for cooking the lentils)
Preparation of Chicken
Begin by boiling the chicken in lightly salted water until fully cooked. Once done, shred the chicken into thin, fine pieces. This step ensures that the chicken is tender and easily blends into the lentil base later.
Cooking the Lentils
Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water. In a separate pot, add the lentils and water. Bring to a boil and let them simmer for about 20–25 minutes until the lentils become soft and mushy. Add a pinch of turmeric and salt while boiling to infuse flavor into the dal. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Tempering (Tadka)
Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan. Add cumin seeds and allow them to sizzle. Then, add chopped onions and sauté them until golden brown. Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Adding Tomatoes and Spices
Next, add the finely chopped tomatoes to the onion mixture. Cook the tomatoes until they break down and form a thick, pulpy sauce. Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala over the mixture, stirring well to blend all the spices.
Combining Chicken and Daal
Once the lentils are fully cooked, mash them slightly for a creamy texture. Add the mashed lentils to the tomato-onion mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Now, add the shredded chicken and mix everything thoroughly. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes so that the flavors meld together.
Simmering and Adjusting Consistency
Check the consistency of the dal. If it feels too thick, you can add more water to adjust it to your liking. Simmer the mixture on low heat for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse deeply into the chicken and dal. Taste and adjust salt or spices if necessary.
Garnishing and Serving
Turn off the heat and garnish the Chicken Resha Daal with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice or warm roti, accompanied by a fresh salad or pickle. This dish is both nutritious and comforting, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
Conclusion
Chicken Resha Daal is a nourishing and flavorful dish that perfectly combines tender shredded chicken with creamy, spiced lentils. It’s a protein-rich, wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. The balance of spices and textures makes it ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. Serve it with rice or roti, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious dish that’s sure to impress. The simplicity of its preparation, combined with its rich taste, makes Chicken Resha Daal a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and comforting meal.