Chicken Xacuti

When I think of comfort food, Chicken Xacuti always comes to mind. This dish is a beautiful blend of spices and tender chicken that warms the soul. I remember the first time I tasted it at a friend’s house during a family gathering, and I was instantly hooked. The aromatic blend of spices filled the air, enticing everyone to come to the table. Each bite was a journey, bursting with flavors that transported me straight to the heart of Goa. My friend’s mother shared her secret recipe, and ever since, I’ve made it a point to include Chicken Xacuti in my own family gatherings. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect with loved ones and share a piece of culture. Making this dish has become a tradition in my home, and I love introducing it to new friends who are unfamiliar with its rich, complex flavors. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, Chicken Xacuti never fails to impress.

Everything You Need for Chicken Xacuti

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making Chicken Xacuti. Each component plays a significant role in creating the signature taste and aroma. From the tender chicken to the fragrant spices, these ingredients come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exotic.

• 1 1/2 pounds diced chicken meat (dark meat produces the most flavor): This is the star of the dish, adding depth and richness.
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil: Used for cooking and adding a subtle flavor.
• 2 yellow onions, diced: They provide sweetness and depth when caramelized.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste: Adds tanginess and balances the dish.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the taste of all the ingredients.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Freshness and color to finish the dish.
• For the Masala Paste:
• 1 cup shredded dried coconut, toasted: Adds nuttiness and aroma.
• 4 dried red chilies, seeds removed: Provides heat.
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds: Earthy flavor.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons coriander seeds: Adds sweetness and complexity.
• 10 black peppercorns: Adds warmth.
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds: For a hint of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon carom/ajwain seeds: Adds a unique flavor.
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds: For texture.
• 6 whole cloves: Adds warmth and depth.
• 1/2-inch piece cinnamon stick: Enhances sweetness.
• 4 whole star anise: Adds a sweet, licorice flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric: For color and health benefits.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mace: A warm spice, can substitute nutmeg.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for flavor.
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger: Adds warmth and zest.

Instructions for Chicken Xacuti

Cooking Chicken Xacuti is an experience itself. You’ll love the process of blending spices and watching how everything transforms into a delicious meal. Follow these detailed steps, and soon you’ll have a fragrant dish that everyone will adore.

1. Make the Masala Paste: Start by placing all the spices in a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them until fragrant, about four to five minutes. Be careful not to burn them, as they can turn bitter. Once toasted, let them cool completely. Grind the spices into a powder using a spice grinder. In a small food processor, combine the ground spices with the toasted coconut, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a splash of oil. Process it all until you have a smooth paste. Set this aside for later.

2. Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook them until they’re caramelized and nicely browned, which will take about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds a sweet base for the dish.

3. Add the Chicken: Once the onions are well-cooked, introduce the diced chicken to the skillet. Sauté until the chicken is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. This will ensure even cooking and flavor absorption throughout.

4. Incorporate the Masala Paste: Stir in the prepared masala paste along with the tamarind paste. Cook for another couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Pour in the Chicken Broth: Now, add the chicken broth and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the chicken absorb all the flavors.

6. Finishing Touches: After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Finally, fold in the chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.

7. Serve: Serve your Chicken Xacuti with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, or alongside naan. You can also add a side of cucumber raita for a delightful contrast.

Tips and Variations

There are many ways to enjoy Chicken Xacuti. Here are some tips and variations that might inspire you:

• Storage: Cool any leftovers completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Pairing: Great with steamed rice or naan, but also consider serving with a fresh salad for brightness.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your unique version of Chicken Xacuti.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with vegetables such as potatoes, cauliflower, or chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chicken Xacuti, there are endless possibilities to explore:

• Serve with rice: Pair your Chicken Xacuti with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish is ideal for sharing at family gatherings, potlucks, or dinner parties. Everyone will want a taste!
• Seasonal sides: Fresh salads or roasted vegetables complement the richness of the dish beautifully.
• Comfort food: Best enjoyed on a chilly evening, when you want something warm and satisfying.
• On a buffet: Chicken Xacuti can be a standout dish on any buffet table, offering guests a taste of something different.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Xacuti is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience that highlights the beauty of Goan cuisine. Its rich spices and tender chicken create a dish that warms the heart and soul. I encourage you to try making it yourself and savor the delightful flavors that come together so wonderfully. It’s a recipe that brings people together, making it perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the culinary adventure!

Chicken Xacuti

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Xacuti is a rich, aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with a vibrant blend of spices. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it’s an easy weeknight meal that will impress everyone around the table. Don’t miss out on making this delicious dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken meat (dark meat produces the most flavor)
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 yellow onions, diced
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup dried coconut, shredded (toasted in a dry skillet until lightly browned)
• 4 dried red chilies, seeds removed and broken into pieces
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 1/2 tablespoons coriander seeds
• 10 black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon carom/ajwain seeds (if unavailable use more cumin and coriander)
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 6 whole cloves
• 1/2 inch piece cinnamon stick
• 4 whole star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mace (can substitute nutmeg)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Food Processor
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Make the Masala Paste: Start by placing all the spices in a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them until fragrant, about four to five minutes. Be careful not to burn them, as they can turn bitter. Once toasted, let them cool completely. Grind the spices into a powder using a spice grinder. In a small food processor, combine the ground spices with the toasted coconut, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a splash of oil. Process it all until you have a smooth paste. Set this aside for later.
2. Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook them until they’re caramelized and nicely browned, which will take about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds a sweet base for the dish.
3. Add the Chicken: Once the onions are well-cooked, introduce the diced chicken to the skillet. Sauté until the chicken is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. This will ensure even cooking and flavor absorption throughout.
4. Incorporate the Masala Paste: Stir in the prepared masala paste along with the tamarind paste. Cook for another couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Pour in the Chicken Broth: Now, add the chicken broth and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the chicken absorb all the flavors.
6. Finishing Touches: After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Finally, fold in the chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
7. Serve: Serve your Chicken Xacuti with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, or alongside naan. You can also add a side of cucumber raita for a delightful contrast.

Notes

Cool any leftovers completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Great with steamed rice or naan, but also consider serving with a fresh salad for brightness.

Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your unique version of Chicken Xacuti.

Substitute chicken with vegetables such as potatoes, cauliflower, or chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian meal.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.