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A classic Goan delicacy featuring tender chicken marinated in a vibrant, spicy green paste of fresh cilantro, mint, and aromatic spices. This pan-fried chicken is bursting with herby and tangy flavors, perfect for a memorable meal.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Cafreal Marinade
Marinate the Chicken
Shallow-Fry the Chicken
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A classic Goan delicacy featuring tender chicken marinated in a vibrant, spicy green paste of fresh cilantro, mint, and aromatic spices. This pan-fried chicken is bursting with herby and tangy flavors, perfect for a memorable meal.
This goan recipe takes 50 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 403.46 calories per serving with 47.71g of protein, it's a moderately challenging recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Slow-Cook to Finish
Serve
Replace chicken with 500g of firm paneer cubes or thick slices of portobello mushrooms. Marinate for at least 1 hour and pan-fry until golden brown.
Use firm fish fillets like kingfish (surmai) or pomfret. Reduce the marination time to 30 minutes, as the acidic vinegar can 'cook' the fish. Pan-fry for 3-4 minutes per side until just cooked through.
Add 2 tablespoons of thick coconut milk or a paste of 10 soaked cashews to the marinade for a richer, creamier texture that also helps to balance the spice level.
Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and maintaining overall body function.
The marinade is loaded with fresh coriander and mint, which are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Spices like green chilies, black pepper, and cumin contain compounds such as capsaicin and piperine, which can help boost metabolism and aid in healthy digestion.
Chicken Cafreal is a spicy chicken dish with Portuguese-African roots, now a staple in Goan cuisine. The name 'Cafreal' is derived from the Portuguese word for the inhabitants of Cafraria, a region in Southern Africa. The vibrant green, herby marinade is its signature feature.
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Cut them into 2-inch pieces. Reduce the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken cooks faster. Pan-fry for about 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through.
A typical serving of Goan Chicken Cafreal (around 140g) contains approximately 280-320 calories. The exact count depends on the amount of oil used and the specific cut of chicken.
It can be a healthy choice. It's high in protein from the chicken and packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh herbs like coriander and mint. To make it healthier, use minimal oil for frying and opt for leaner cuts of chicken.
Traditionally, it's served with Goan bread like Poi or Pao to soak up the masala. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, a simple kachumber salad, or potato wedges.