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Leftover Chicken Qeema

Leftover Chicken Qeema

  • Author: Charlotte
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: South Asian
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A flavorful and comforting South Asian-style minced chicken dish made from leftovers, enriched with warming spices and aromatics. Perfect for busy weeknights or creative next-day meals.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups leftover cooked chicken (shredded)
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 medium tomato (chopped)
  • 4 cloves garlic (grated)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
  • 2 green chilies (sliced, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat your skillet over medium flame and add the oil until it shimmers.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Then toss in onions and sauté until deep golden brown—about 8–10 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Ensure your pan is wide enough to allow everything to cook evenly without crowding.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Stir in tomatoes and cook until soft. Add turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Add shredded chicken and stir to coat. Cook for 5–7 minutes until everything is heated through. Sprinkle garam masala and stir again.
  6. Finishing Touches: Squeeze in lemon juice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate hot with warm naan, roti, or a bed of basmati rice. Enjoy every spiced, savory bite!

Notes

  • Shred the chicken finely for better texture and flavor absorption.
  • Add peas or potatoes for a hearty variation.
  • Let the qeema rest for 5 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best aroma and taste.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: leftover chicken, qeema, chicken mince, quick dinner, Pakistani recipe, Indian recipe