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Chicken Cafreal

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Ingredients

Adjust Servings:

	1 kg chicken (preferably bone-in or drumsticks)
	2 tbsp oil or ghee
	Salt to taste
	For the Cafreal Masala
	2 cups fresh coriander leaves
	8 garlic cloves
	1-inch piece of ginger
	6 green chilies (adjust to taste)
	1 small onion, roughly chopped
	2 tsp cumin seeds
	1 tsp black peppercorns
	1-inch cinnamon stick
	6 cloves
	1 tsp turmeric powder
	1 tbsp vinegar or juice of 1 lime

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Chicken Cafreal

Name: Chicken Cafreal
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: chicken (preferably bone-in or drumsticks): 1 kg; oil or ghee: 2 tbsp; Salt to taste; fresh coriander leaves: 2 cups; garlic cloves: 8; 1-inch piece of ginger; green chilies (adjust to taste): 6; onion, roughly chopped: 1 small; cumin seeds: 2 tsp; black peppercorns: 1 tsp; cinnamon stick: 1-inch; cloves: 6; turmeric powder: 1 tsp; vinegar or juice of 1 lime: 1 tbsp

Goan chicken in a bold green masala.

Features:

Cuisine:

Indian

Chicken Cafreal is a flavorful and aromatic dish that hails from the vibrant culinary traditions of Goa, India. With its origins rooted in Portuguese influence, this dish is a favorite among food lovers for its rich green marinade and unique taste profile.

45 minutes
Serves 4
Medium

Ingredients

1 kg chicken (preferably bone-in or drumsticks)
2 tbsp oil or ghee
Salt to taste
For the Cafreal Masala
2 cups fresh coriander leaves
8 garlic cloves
1-inch piece of ginger
6 green chilies (adjust to taste)
1 small onion, roughly chopped
2 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp black peppercorns
1-inch cinnamon stick
6 cloves
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tbsp vinegar or juice of 1 lime

Directions

Chicken Cafreal is a signature dish from Goa, India, influenced by Portuguese cuisine. It is characterized by its vibrant green color, which comes from a freshly prepared marinade made with coriander leaves, green chilies, and a blend of aromatic spices. The marinade, rich in flavor, is rubbed onto the chicken and left to infuse, ensuring that every bite is bursting with a combination of herbaceous, tangy, and mildly spicy notes.

Traditionally made using whole chicken legs or bone-in pieces, Chicken Cafreal is either pan-fried or grilled to achieve a smoky, slightly charred flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. The dish is a celebration of bold, earthy flavors, with hints of black pepper, cloves, and a touch of vinegar, which add depth and balance to the taste.

Chicken Cafreal is typically served with simple accompaniments like lime wedges, sliced onions, and bread or rice, allowing the rich and zesty flavors of the chicken to shine. A true reflection of Goa’s vibrant culinary heritage, Chicken Cafreal is both a feast for the eyes and the palate, making it a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

The nutritional profile of Chicken Cafreal depends on portion size and preparation methods. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a standard serving (about 150g of chicken with masala):

Nutritional Information:

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	280-320 kcal
Protein	25-30g
Fat	18-20g
– Saturated Fat	3-4g
Carbohydrates	2-4g
– Fiber	1-2g
– Sugars	<1g
Cholesterol	75-90mg
Sodium	400-500mg

Key Nutritional Highlights:

Protein: Chicken is a rich source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Healthy Fats: The marinade contains minimal added fat, depending on the use of oil or ghee during cooking.
Low Carbohydrates: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb or keto diets.
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Vitamin C: From coriander and lime, supports immunity.
- Iron & Zinc: Found in chicken and spices, essential for blood health and immunity.
- Antioxidants: Green chilies and coriander are rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress.

Tips for Healthier Preparation:

Use skinless chicken to reduce fat content.
Opt for olive oil or avocado oil instead of ghee for a lighter option.
Pair with whole-grain bread or brown rice to boost fiber intake.

Chicken Cafreal is not only a flavorful delight but also a nutritious addition to a balanced diet, offering plenty of protein and beneficial micronutrients while being relatively low in carbohydrates.

Share It: Let's Cook Together!

Steps

1 Done	Prepare the Cafreal Masala Grind all the masala ingredients into a smooth paste using a little water as needed.
2 Done	Marinate the Chicken Wash and pat dry the chicken. Rub the masala paste generously onto the chicken pieces, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight in the fridge for better flavor).
3 Done	Cook the Chicken Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken in the skillet and sear until browned on both sides. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Add a splash of water if the masala starts to stick.
4 Done	Serve Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with bread, parathas, or steamed rice. Enjoy the vibrant and spicy delight of Chicken Cafreal, perfect for a hearty meal!

Sudheesh R

Every meal is an adventure, I'm Sudheesh, a graphic designer and a passionate foodie. Working behind the scenes on this blog, I channel my love for design and culinary adventures into everything I do. Join me as I blend creativity with flavors, crafting both visual masterpieces and delicious dishes that tell a story of my dual passions.