Chicken rolls are a versatile and beloved dish that has made its way into various cuisines around the world. Whether you’re grabbing one from a street vendor in Kolkata, indulging in a quick snack in London, or preparing a homemade treat in your kitchen, the chicken roll offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that satisfy your cravings. In this blog, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process of creating the perfect chicken roll at home, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get into the cooking process, let's gather the ingredients you'll need for the chicken roll:
For the Chicken Filling:
500 grams of boneless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
1 medium onion, finely sliced
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin powder
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons oil
Fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
For the Paratha (Flatbread):
2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
2 tablespoons oil or ghee
A pinch of salt
Water, as needed, to knead the dough
For the Assembly:
1 small cucumber, julienned
1 small onion, sliced thinly
Green chutney (made with coriander, mint, green chilies, and yogurt)
Tomato ketchup (optional)
A few leaves of fresh lettuce (optional)
Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a little water)
Step 1: Preparing the Dough for Paratha
The foundation of a good chicken roll lies in the quality of the flatbread, or paratha, that wraps around the delicious filling. To make the paratha:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. Mix well.
Gradually add water while kneading the dough. The dough should be soft and pliable but not sticky. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps in making the parathas softer and easier to roll.
Step 2: Marinating the Chicken
While the dough rests, it’s time to prepare the chicken filling.
In a mixing bowl, add the chicken strips, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken Filling
Once the chicken has marinated:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
Add the finely sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add the marinated chicken strips to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Once cooked, sprinkle some freshly chopped coriander leaves over the chicken and mix well.
Remove the chicken from heat and set it aside.
Step 4: Rolling and Cooking the Parathas
With the filling ready, it’s time to roll out the parathas.
Divide the rested dough into small equal-sized balls.
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll each dough ball into a circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
Heat a tawa or flat skillet over medium heat. Place the rolled-out paratha on the hot tawa.
Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until light brown spots start to appear. Apply a small amount of oil or ghee on both sides and cook for an additional minute on each side until golden and fully cooked.
If you prefer a more indulgent roll, brush the paratha with egg wash during the last minute of cooking. This will give the paratha a nice glossy finish and add an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Assembling the Chicken Roll
Now that the parathas and chicken filling are ready, it’s time to assemble the chicken rolls.
Place a warm paratha on a flat surface.
Spread a spoonful of green chutney across the paratha. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for spice and tang.
Add a portion of the cooked chicken filling in the center of the paratha.
Top the chicken with julienned cucumber, sliced onions, and fresh lettuce leaves for a bit of crunch. You can also drizzle some tomato ketchup for a touch of sweetness if desired.
Fold the paratha over the filling from one side, then roll it up tightly like a burrito, ensuring the filling is well-wrapped inside.
Step 6: Serving the Chicken Roll
Your homemade chicken rolls are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them hot with a side of extra green chutney or ketchup for dipping. These rolls make for a perfect lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. They’re portable, easy to eat, and packed with flavors that will satisfy any craving.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Rolls
Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling. Add some grilled vegetables, paneer, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a different twist on the traditional chicken roll.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder roll, reduce the amount of red chili powder or skip the green chilies in the chutney. Alternatively, if you love heat, add some extra green chilies or a dash of hot sauce.
Make Ahead: Both the chicken filling and parathas can be prepared in advance. Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The parathas can be stored at room temperature for a day or refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to assemble, simply reheat the components and put together your rolls.
Conclusion
The chicken roll is a deliciously satisfying dish that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual family dinner or packing them for a picnic, these rolls are sure to be a hit. With a flavorful chicken filling wrapped in a soft, warm paratha and complemented by fresh veggies and tangy chutney, each bite is a burst of taste and texture. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something quick, tasty, and homemade, give this chicken roll recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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