Chicken and dal is a comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken and protein-packed lentils. This recipe is a staple in many South Asian kitchens where it’s loved for its hearty texture and satisfying taste. Combining spices with simple ingredients, it creates a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
We love how versatile this dish is—it works perfectly as a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. The slow-cooked dal absorbs the spices while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re new to cooking dal or looking to add a new twist to your chicken recipes, this Chicken and Dal recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
To create a flavorful and hearty Chicken and Dal dish, we gather fresh ingredients and essential spices that bring this classic recipe to life. Below is a detailed breakdown of what we need for each component.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 pounds (700 g) chicken pieces, bone-in or boneless, cut into medium chunks
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil for authentic flavor)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 inch ginger piece, grated or finely minced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed or minced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
For the Dal
- 1 cup split yellow moong dal or toor dal, rinsed thoroughly
- 3 cups water for cooking dal
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
Spices and Seasonings
| Spice / Seasoning | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon | Adjust for heat preference |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon | Adds warm, citrusy undertones |
| Garam masala | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds depth and complexity |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon | For tempering |
| Bay leaf | 1 | Adds subtle aromatic flavor |
| Fresh cilantro leaves | A handful, chopped | For garnish and freshness |
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh lemon wedges for a splash of acidity
- Chopped fresh green chilies for extra heat
- A dollop of yogurt or cream to mellow spice if desired
- Fried onions for texture and richness
With these ingredients assembled we can begin our step-by-step journey to crafting the perfect Chicken and Dal dish that balances robust spices with tender chicken and creamy lentils.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken And Dal Recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Using proper tools ensures even cooking and brings out the best flavors in the dish. Here is the list of must-have kitchen equipment to make this hearty and flavorful meal:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven | For slow-cooking the dal and chicken evenly without burning |
| Large skillet or frying pan | To sauté spices, onions, and brown the chicken |
| Fine mesh strainer | To rinse the dal thoroughly before cooking |
| Cutting board and sharp knife | For prepping chicken, onions, garlic, and ginger |
| Measuring cups and spoons | To measure spices and other ingredients precisely |
| Wooden spoon or silicone spatula | For stirring and folding ingredients gently |
| Lid for pot or pan | To cover the dal during simmering for moisture retention |
| Blender or immersion blender (optional) | For pureeing part of the dal to enhance texture if desired |
Having these items ready before starting makes the cooking process smooth and allows us to concentrate on building the layers of flavor in our Chicken And Dal. These tools help us control heat levels, monitor doneness, and combine spices to coax out the signature richness this dish is known for.
Prep Work
Before we begin cooking, proper prep work sets the foundation for our Chicken and Dal recipe. Let’s get everything ready to ensure smooth, flavorful cooking.
Preparing the Chicken
- Start with 2 pounds of bone-in chicken pieces. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Trim any excess fat or skin for a cleaner taste and texture.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken with:
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (this tenderizes and adds brightness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Mix well and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances flavor penetration and tenderness.
Soaking and Preparing the Dal
- For this recipe, we use 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal) or split yellow pigeon peas (toor dal).
- Rinse the dal under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove surface starch.
- Place dal in a large bowl and cover with 3 cups of warm water, soaking for 30 minutes. This helps soften the dal for even cooking.
- Drain soaked dal thoroughly before cooking.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dal quantity | 1 cup split red or yellow dal |
| Rinse | Until water runs clear |
| Soak time | 30 minutes |
| Water for soaking | 3 cups warm water |
Chopping Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion: Peel and finely chop to release maximum flavor during sautéing.
- 3 cloves garlic: Mince finely to infuse aromatic depth.
- 1-inch piece ginger: Peel and grate or mince finely for a fresh zing.
- 2 medium tomatoes: Chop finely or puree for a rich base.
- If using fresh chilies or coriander for garnish, chop them finely as well.
Organize all ingredients within reach to maintain an efficient workflow while cooking our Chicken and Dal.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these clear and precise steps to create a delicious Chicken and Dal dish that combines tender spiced chicken with creamy, flavorful dal. We will guide you through each phase to ensure perfect results.
Cooking the Dal
- Drain and rinse the soaked dal thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, add the rinsed dal along with 3 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder and a pinch of salt to the dal for taste.
- Cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until the dal is soft and begins to break down, stirring occasionally.
- In the last 5 minutes, mash some of the dal gently with the back of a spoon for a creamier texture.
- Remove from heat and set aside, keeping the dal warm.
Preparing the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 large chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Stir in 2 teaspoons minced garlic and 1 tablespoon grated ginger, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add 2 chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and oil begins to separate, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Mix in the following spices, stirring continuously to avoid burning:
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the spice mixture.
- Cook the chicken on medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes until the meat is lightly browned and partially cooked.
- Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combining Chicken and Dal
- Pour the cooked dal into the skillet with the chicken.
- Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is fully immersed in the dal.
- Add 1 cup water or chicken broth to adjust the consistency to your preference.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat.
- Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness before serving.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Chicken and Dal experience, thoughtful serving choices make all the difference. Here are some expert tips to complement and enhance this flavorful dish.
Perfect Accompaniments
Serve Chicken and Dal with these traditional sides to balance its rich and hearty profile:
- Steamed Basmati Rice: Fluffy, aromatic rice absorbs the luscious dal sauce perfectly.
- Warm Naan or Roti: Ideal for scooping up the tender chicken and dal, adding a pleasing texture contrast.
- Fresh Cucumber Raita: Cooling yogurt with cucumber and mint complements the spices and refreshes the palate.
- Pickled Vegetables: A tangy bite like mango or lime pickle adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal and Flavor
Before serving, sprinkle the dish with:
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds vibrant green color and a fresh herbal note.
- A Squeeze of Lemon Juice: Enhances brightness and balances the savory depth.
- Thinly Sliced Green Chilies (optional): For guests who enjoy extra heat.
Drink Pairings
Our savory and spiced Chicken and Dal pairs excellently with:
| Drink Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Mango Lassi | Creamy and sweet yogurt drink |
| Masala Chai | Spiced tea to complement the flavor |
| Light Lager Beer | Refreshing with mild bitterness |
| Sparkling Water | Cleanses the palate between bites |
Serving Temperature and Presentation
- Serve the Chicken and Dal hot to fully enjoy the melded spices and tender textures.
- Use a deep serving bowl to hold the dal’s gravy nicely.
- Place rice or bread on the side or on a separate plate to keep components distinct.
By following these serving suggestions, we turn our Chicken and Dal Recipe into a truly memorable meal that engages all senses.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Chicken and Dal in advance can save us valuable time while enhancing the flavors through marination and slow melding of spices. Here are our top tips to achieve the best results when making this dish ahead of time.
Marinate the Chicken Overnight
For deeper flavors and tender texture, marinate the chicken with lemon juice, salt, and turmeric for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the acids and spices to penetrate the meat fully.
Soak the Dal in Advance
We recommend soaking the dal for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and smooth texture. For make-ahead, rinse and soak the dal, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours without losing quality.
Cook Dal and Chicken Separately
You can cook the dal and chicken separately up to 24 hours ahead. Store each in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine and simmer together to marry the flavors freshly.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat the combined Chicken and Dal gently on a stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid microwave reheating which can dry out the dish.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
Chicken and Dal freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described above.
| Make-Ahead Step | Timeframe | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinate chicken | 4 hours to overnight | Refrigerate | Enhances flavor and tenderizes meat |
| Soak dal | 30 minutes to 24 hours | Refrigerate | Ensures even cooking and texture |
| Cook chicken and dal separately | Up to 24 hours | Airtight containers | Combine and simmer before serving |
| Freeze cooked dish | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe container | Thaw overnight in refrigerator before use |
Pro Tip: Marination and slow simmering intensify the spices and create a richer, more aromatic dish. Planning ahead unlocks these flavor benefits easily.
With these make-ahead tips, we can enjoy the comforting richness of Chicken and Dal with minimal last-minute effort while preserving its hearty taste and texture.
Conclusion
Chicken and Dal is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that bring comfort and satisfaction to any table. With its rich spices and wholesome ingredients, this dish fits perfectly into our busy lives while still offering a taste of tradition.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, we can create a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious, whether for a casual dinner or a special gathering. It’s a recipe that invites us to explore the warmth of South Asian cuisine right in our own kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken and Dal?
Chicken and Dal is a comforting South Asian dish combining tender chicken pieces with slow-cooked lentils (dal), seasoned with spices for rich flavor and nutrition.
What types of dal are best for this recipe?
Split red lentils or yellow pigeon peas work best, as they cook evenly and absorb spices well.
How do I prepare the chicken for this dish?
Rinse and marinate 2 pounds of bone-in chicken with lemon juice, salt, and turmeric to enhance flavor and tenderness.
What spices are commonly used in Chicken and Dal?
Typical spices include turmeric, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and optional green chilies for heat.
What kitchen tools are needed?
A heavy-bottomed pot, a large skillet, measuring spoons, and a sharp knife are essential for even cooking and preparation.
How long should I soak the dal?
Soak the dal in warm water for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even softness.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken overnight, soak dal in advance, and cook components separately for easy reheating.
What are good side dishes to serve with Chicken and Dal?
Serve with steamed basmati rice, warm naan or roti, fresh cucumber raita, and pickled vegetables.
How should I reheat leftover Chicken and Dal?
Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat to preserve flavor and texture; freezing is also recommended for long-term storage.
What drinks pair well with this meal?
Try mango lassi, masala chai, light lager beer, or sparkling water to complement the rich flavors.