Devilled Chicken

A quick and flavorful Sri Lankan favorite, this devilled chicken is bursting with spice and tang. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in aromatic spices, then cooked in a zesty sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness. Perfectly balanced with a kick of heat from green chilies, it’s a simple yet bold dish that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice for a satisfying meal.

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

●     4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)

●     2 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil

●     1 large onion, thinly sliced

●     1 red bell pepper, sliced

●     1–2 green chilies (adjust to spice preference, sliced)

●     2 tbsp garlic, minced

●     1 tsp ginger powder

●     2 tbsp soy sauce

●     2 tbsp tomato ketchup

●     1 tbsp white vinegar or tamarind paste

●     1 tbsp sugar

●     1 tsp chili powder (adjust for heat level)

●     ½ tsp turmeric powder

●     1 tsp curry powder

●     Salt to taste

●     1 spring onion (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

   • In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with soy sauce, chili powder, turmeric, curry powder, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if you have time).

2. Cook the Chicken

   • Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning to brown evenly on all sides. Once browned and cooked through, set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

   • In the same pan, add the remaining oil.

     Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and green chilies. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

4. Add the Sauces & Spices

   • Stir in the tomato ketchup, white vinegar or tamarind paste, and sugar. Let the sauce simmer for about 2–3 minutes. Adjust the flavor, adding a bit more salt, sugar, or vinegar as needed.

5. Combine Chicken & Sauce

   • Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and mix it well with the sauce. Let it cook together for 3–5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in all the flavors.

6. Serve

   • Garnish with fresh spring onions and serve hot.