Chicken Balti Curry with Basmati Rice is a vibrant, aromatic, and deeply flavorful dish rooted in the famous Balti-style cooking that originated in the UK with strong influences from Northern India and Pakistan. What makes Balti unique is its quick-cooking technique, where ingredients are stir-fried with spices over high heat and simmered in a light yet robust sauce.

This creates a curry that is fragrant, fresh, and incredibly satisfying without being overly heavy. When paired with fluffy basmati rice, the dish becomes a comforting, complete meal perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of an authentic curry experience without requiring complicated methods or obscure ingredients. The balance between tangy tomatoes, aromatic spices, and tender chicken is irresistible.

It’s a dish that feels both homely and restaurant-quality. The cooking process itself is enjoyable—the sizzling spices, the aroma of garam masala blooming, and the rich color of the curry coming together. It’s a meal that always leaves you satisfied and eager for more.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Chicken Balti Curry is a must-try because it offers a fantastic combination of warm spices and bold flavors without being overwhelmingly spicy. The quick-cook method preserves the freshness of the ingredients while still allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

It’s versatile, customizable, and pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, roti, naan, or even quinoa. If you want to experience a curry that is aromatic, comforting, and full of depth, this dish deserves a place in your recipe collection.

Preparation Time

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Servings and Calories

Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 420–480 calories per serving (includes rice)

Course and Cuisine

Course: Main course
Cuisine: Indian-inspired / Balti-style

Ingredients

For the Chicken Balti Curry

• 500 g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 large onion, finely sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 tomatoes, chopped or 1 cup tomato puree
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 green chili, slit (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1½ teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri chili powder
• ¼ cup yogurt or coconut milk
• Salt to taste
• ½ cup water
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the Basmati Rice

• 1½ cups basmati rice
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• Salt to taste

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Prepare the rice and set it aside.
2. Sauté spices, onions, garlic, and ginger for the curry base.
3. Cook chicken with spices until coated.
4. Add tomatoes and cook into a masala.
5. Add water and simmer until chicken is tender.
6. Finish with yogurt and garam masala.
7. Serve with hot basmati rice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Basmati Rice

1. Rinse rice until water runs clear.
2. In a pot, heat ghee or oil.
3. Add rice and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour in 3 cups water and add salt.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes.
6. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Start the Balti Curry Base

1. Heat oil in a large pan.
2. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds; let them crackle.
3. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add garlic, ginger, and green chili; cook for 1 minute.

Step 3: Add Spices

1. Add turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, and chili powder.
2. Cook for 30 seconds to release aroma.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Add chicken pieces to the pan.
2. Stir well to coat with the spices.
3. Cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

1. Add chopped tomatoes or puree.
2. Cook until tomatoes break down and form a thick masala.
3. Add salt and mix well.
4. Add water and bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes.

Step 6: Finish the Curry

1. Reduce heat and stir in yogurt or coconut milk.
2. Add garam masala.
3. Add sliced bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes to keep them crisp.
4. Garnish with fresh coriander.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve hot Balti chicken over steamed basmati rice.
• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Pair with naan, roti, or paratha.
• Serve with raita, salad, or pickles.

Recipe Tips

• Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breast.
• Yogurt adds creaminess—whisk it before adding to prevent curdling.
• Toasting whole spices enhances flavor.
• Add water gradually to control consistency.
• For richer flavor, marinate chicken with spices for 20 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Balti Chicken

Add extra chilies or use hot chili powder.

Vegetable Balti

Use potatoes, cauliflower, peas, carrots, or mushrooms instead of chicken.

Balti Chicken with Coconut Milk

Replace yogurt with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.

Balti Chicken with Paneer

Add cubes of fried paneer to make a protein-packed vegetarian version.

Tomato-Free Balti

Use yogurt and cream instead of tomatoes for a smoother curry.

Freezing and Storage Time

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Freezing

• Freeze the curry without yogurt for up to 2 months.
• Add yogurt after reheating for best texture.
• Rice can be frozen separately for 1 month.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large deep skillet or wok
• Rice pot with lid
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Can I make this curry without tomatoes?

Yes, substitute with yogurt or coconut milk for a creamy gravy.

Can this recipe be made ahead?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, increase cooking time by 10–12 minutes.

Is Balti curry very spicy?

Not by default; you can control heat easily.

Conclusion

Chicken Balti Curry with Basmati Rice is a rich, aromatic, and satisfying meal that blends fragrant spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice into a comforting dish suitable for any day of the week. Its versatility, depth of flavor, and quick cooking method make it a standout recipe for anyone who loves vibrant and authentic-style curries. Whether you enjoy mild or bold flavors, this dish adapts beautifully to your preferences and promises a memorable dining experience every time.