Authentic Goan Chicken Cafreal recipe
Goan Chicken Cafreal is a vibrant green spiced chicken dish marinated in coriander, chilies, vinegar, and aromatic spices, then pan-fried to perfection. It’s bold, fragrant, and full of Goan soul.
Equipment
- Blender or grinder
- Non-stick pan or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon and tongs
Ingredients
- 750 g chicken bone-in thighs or drumsticks preferred
- 2 cups fresh coriander leaves
- 6 –8 green chilies adjust to taste
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1- inch piece of ginger
- 1 small onion
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 6 black peppercorns
- 1 cinnamon stick 1 inch
- 2 cloves
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp vinegar Goan toddy vinegar if available
- Juice of ½ lime
- 1 tbsp oil for marinade
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee for cooking
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the green masala
- In a blender, combine coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, garlic, onion, cumin, coriander seeds, peppercorns, cinnamon, cloves, vinegar, lime juice, turmeric, garam masala, oil, and salt. Blend into a smooth paste. Add a little water if needed.
Step 2 – Marinate the chicken
- Rub the masala generously over the chicken pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3 – Cook the chicken
- Heat oil or ghee in a wide pan over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken pieces and cook on both sides until golden and cooked through — about 20–25 minutes total. If needed, cover halfway through to keep it moist.
Step 4 – Finish and serve
- Once done, sprinkle a squeeze of lime, garnish with onion rings and coriander, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for best flavor.
- The longer you marinate, the deeper the taste.
- Adjust chilies for spice level; you can also add mint for a fresh twist.
- Cafreal tastes even better when cooked on a grill or barbecue.
Nutrition
Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g