Goan Chicken Cafreal – Spicy Green Masala Chicken

 Goan Chicken Cafreal – Spicy Green Masala Chicken

Goan Chicken Cafreal is a flavorful chicken dish made with a fresh green masala of coriander, mint, green chilies, ginger and garlic. The chicken is marinated in this vibrant mixture and cooked until tender, allowing it to absorb the fresh, spicy and aromatic flavors.

It is a popular Goan-style preparation and makes a delicious lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

- 500 g chicken pieces

- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- Salt to taste

- 2 tablespoons cooking oil

For the Green Masala

- 1 cup fresh coriander leaves

- ½ cup fresh mint leaves

- 4–5 green chilies

- 6 garlic cloves

- 1-inch piece ginger

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

- ½ teaspoon black peppercorns

- 2 cloves

- 1 small cinnamon stick

- 1 tablespoon vinegar

- 2 tablespoons water, or as needed

For Cooking

- 1 medium onion, sliced

- ½ cup water, if required

- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Method

1. Prepare the Green Masala

Add coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon and vinegar to a blender.

Grind into a thick, smooth green paste.

Add only a small amount of water if necessary.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large bowl.

Add turmeric powder, lemon juice, salt and half of the prepared green masala.

Mix thoroughly so the chicken is well coated.

Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavor, refrigerate it for 3–4 hours.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a wide pan.

Add the sliced onion and sauté until lightly golden.

Add the marinated chicken.

Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally.

4. Add the Green Masala

Add the remaining green masala to the pan.

Mix well so the chicken is completely coated.

Cover and cook over low heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

If the masala becomes too dry before the chicken is cooked, add a small amount of water.

5. Finish the Dish

Remove the lid and cook for another few minutes until the masala becomes thick and coats the chicken.

Taste and adjust the salt.

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Goan Chicken Cafreal tastes delicious with:

- Goan pao

- Chapati

- Paratha

- Steamed rice

- Jeera rice

- Salad

Tips for Perfect Chicken Cafreal

- Use fresh coriander and mint for a vibrant green masala.

- Don't add too much water while grinding the masala.

- Marinate the chicken for several hours for better flavor.

- Cook the chicken over medium-low heat so the green masala doesn't burn.

- Vinegar adds the characteristic tangy note, so adjust it according to taste.

Final Thoughts

Goan Chicken Cafreal is a vibrant and aromatic chicken dish that brings together fresh herbs, spices and a gentle tanginess. The green masala gives the chicken a distinctive flavor and makes this dish a delicious addition to any Indian-style lunch or dinner.