Veggi Chicken Recipe: A Delicious Fusion of Veggies, Chicken, and Spices
Are you looking for a flavorful yet healthy dish that combines the richness of chicken with the freshness of vegetables? The Veggi Chicken Recipe is your perfect answer. With a few simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, this dish brings out a mouthwatering blend of taste, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this veggi chicken recipe can easily be your go-to choice.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making Veggi Chicken — from building the chicken base to mixing green chilies, boiling, combining with rice, and finally serving the dish hot and ready. Plus, we’ll also share cooking tips, nutritional benefits, and serving suggestions.
What is Veggi Chicken?
Veggi Chicken is a flavorful dish where tender chicken is cooked with a medley of vegetables, green chilies, and aromatic spices, then served either standalone or with boiled rice. Unlike traditional chicken curry or fry recipes, Veggi Chicken leans toward a healthier, mildly spicy, and wholesome profile. It’s an ideal meal for those who love the fusion of Indian-style spices and healthy home cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here is the list of ingredients needed to prepare Veggi Chicken:
For the Chicken Base:
- 500 grams boneless chicken (cut into small cubes or strips)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp yogurt (optional for tenderness)
- 1 tbsp oil
For the Veggie Mix:
- 1 large onion (sliced thinly)
- 1 cup bell peppers (green, red, and yellow, sliced)
- 1 carrot (julienned)
- ½ cup green peas
- 1-2 green chilies (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp oil
For the Rice (Optional):
- 2 cups basmati rice
- Salt to taste
- Water for boiling
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Veggi Chicken
Step 1: Build the Chicken Base
Start by marinating your chicken for flavor and tenderness.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix well and let it rest for at least 20–30 minutes (you can refrigerate it for enhanced flavor).
- In a pan, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté until the chicken turns golden and is cooked through.
- Remove from heat and set aside. This forms the base of your Veggi Chicken dish.
Tip: Ensure the chicken is not overcooked to retain its tenderness. Cooking it in yogurt helps lock in moisture and enhances taste.
Step 2: Add and Cook the Green Chilies
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp oil.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped green chilies and sauté for a minute to release their heat and aroma.
- Immediately add the sliced onions and cook until translucent.
Note: Green chilies are what give the dish its spicy kick. Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice tolerance.
Step 3: Mix the Veggies
Now it’s time to bring the “veggi” part to life.
- Add the julienned carrots, bell peppers, and green peas to the onion-chili mix.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt and cook on medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes. You want the veggies to stay a bit crunchy, not mushy.
- Add the cooked chicken to the veggie mixture.
- Toss everything together and let the flavors blend.
- Add black pepper and garam masala, and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Optional: If you like a saucy consistency, you can add ¼ cup chicken stock or water and simmer for a few minutes.
Step 4: Boil the Rice
While your chicken-veggie mix is simmering, prepare the rice.
- Rinse 2 cups of basmati rice until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add salt and the rinsed rice.
- Cook uncovered until the rice is fluffy but not overcooked (usually 10–12 minutes).
- Drain the water and set the rice aside.
Pro Tip: For added flavor, boil the rice with a bay leaf and a few cloves.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to bring it all together.
- Gently fold the veggi chicken mix into the boiled rice.
- Mix carefully to avoid breaking the rice grains.
- Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes on low heat to let the flavors blend.
Alternatively, you can serve the veggi chicken on the side of the rice for a more aesthetic plating.
Final Step: Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Veggi Chicken is now ready to be served. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander or mint leaves and serve hot. You can also squeeze a little lemon juice on top for a tangy twist.
Variations and Tips
- Add more vegetables: You can include zucchini, corn, or mushrooms depending on availability.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of fresh cream or coconut milk for a rich twist.
- Spice it up: Add green chili paste or a pinch of crushed red chili flakes for more heat.
- Make it vegan: Replace chicken with tofu or paneer for a vegetarian version.
Health Benefits of Veggi Chicken
- Protein-rich: Chicken is a great source of lean protein which helps in muscle building.
- Nutrient-dense veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, and peas are loaded with fiber, vitamins A, C, and antioxidants.
- Low in oil: Compared to fried dishes, this uses minimal oil, making it a healthier option.
- Balanced meal: With carbs from rice, protein from chicken, and fiber from veggies, it’s a complete, balanced dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of cucumber salad or onion raita.
- Add a papad or pickle for that Indian touch.
- For a Western twist, pair it with a light green salad and garlic bread.
Conclusion
The Veggi Chicken Recipe is not just a meal — it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and nutrition. It’s easy enough for a weekday dinner yet impressive enough for a family gathering. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility — you can experiment with spices, vegetables, or even the type of rice you use.
Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will surely earn a permanent spot in your kitchen. Try it today and let your taste buds thank you!
If you enjoyed this Veggi Chicken Recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
Jenifer
