Delicious Chicken Sajji With Rice Recipe (Urdu)

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey guys, are you ready to dive into the amazing world of Pakistani cuisine? Today, we're going to whip up a fantastic Chicken Sajji with Rice recipe, a true Pakistani classic that's bursting with flavor! This dish is a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for a special dinner or a fun get-together. I'll walk you through every step, making it super easy to follow, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. We'll be making the Sajji – the marinated, roasted chicken – and pairing it with fluffy, aromatic rice. Trust me, the aroma alone will make your mouth water! So, let's get started and learn how to make this delightful Chicken Sajji with Rice recipe in Urdu. I'll include all the details, from the perfect spice blend to the tender, juicy chicken. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

What is Chicken Sajji?

So, before we jump into the recipe, let's chat about what Chicken Sajji actually is. Sajji is a traditional dish from Balochistan, Pakistan. It's all about whole chicken, marinated in a blend of delicious spices, and then slow-roasted to perfection. The traditional method involves roasting the chicken over an open fire, which gives it that incredible smoky flavor. However, we're going to adapt the recipe for the home kitchen, so don't worry, you don't need a bonfire! We'll use an oven to achieve a similar, equally tasty result. The beauty of Sajji lies in its simplicity. It's the quality of the chicken and the careful balance of spices that makes it so special. The chicken is typically so tender that it practically falls off the bone, and the skin gets beautifully crispy. It's a complete sensory experience! We will be making this delicious Chicken Sajji in our kitchen today. I'm excited to share this recipe with you.

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our ingredients. This is where the magic starts! For the Chicken Sajji, you'll need the following:

  • Whole Chicken: Aim for a chicken that’s about 3-4 pounds. Make sure it's cleaned and patted dry. This is the star of the show, so the better the quality of the chicken, the better your Sajji will be!
  • Yogurt: Plain, full-fat yogurt is the key to tenderizing the chicken and adding a lovely tang. About 1 cup should do the trick.
  • Ginger-Garlic Paste: This is a must-have in Pakistani cooking! It adds a fantastic depth of flavor. You’ll need about 2 tablespoons.
  • Spices: This is where the flavor profile gets exciting! You'll need:
    • Salt: To taste. Don't be shy!
    • Red Chili Powder: For that lovely heat (adjust to your preference).
    • Turmeric Powder: For color and a subtle earthy flavor.
    • Garam Masala: A blend of warm spices, essential for authentic flavor.
    • Cumin Powder: Adds a nutty, earthy element.
    • Coriander Powder: A fragrant spice that complements the other flavors.
    • Black Pepper: For a bit of a kick.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It adds a zesty brightness to the marinade.
  • Cooking Oil: For brushing the chicken to help it crisp up. Any neutral oil will work.

For the rice, you will need:

  • Basmati Rice: The long-grain, aromatic rice that’s perfect for this dish. About 2 cups.
  • Water: Enough to cook the rice.
  • Salt: To taste.
  • Oil: A little bit to prevent the rice from sticking.

Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking. It makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. So, get all these ingredients to cook Chicken Sajji with Rice today.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Chicken Sajji

Alright, let's get cooking! Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to making the most delicious Chicken Sajji you've ever tasted:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: The first step is to clean and dry the whole chicken thoroughly. This helps the marinade adhere properly. Make some shallow slits on the chicken (thighs, breast, and legs). This will allow the marinade to penetrate deeper, ensuring that the chicken is flavorful throughout.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and black pepper. Whisk everything well until it forms a smooth paste. This is the foundation of the flavor.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in the bowl with the marinade. Using your hands (or a spoon), make sure the chicken is completely covered with the marinade, including inside the slits you made earlier. Massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring it gets into every nook and cranny. This is where all the flavor comes from!
  4. Marinate Time: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. Patience is key here, guys!
  5. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This will allow the chicken to cook evenly and prevent it from sitting in its own juices.
  6. Roast the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the wire rack. Brush the chicken with a little oil. This will help the skin crisp up beautifully. Roast the chicken for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. The skin should be golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the chicken and baste it with the pan juices every 30 minutes or so to keep it moist.
  7. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Garnish with some fresh coriander (cilantro) and serve hot. Serve the delicious Chicken Sajji.

Making the Rice: The Perfect Side

Now, let’s make some fluffy, aromatic rice to go with our Chicken Sajji! Here’s how:

  1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, which helps the rice cook up light and fluffy.
  2. Cook the Rice: In a pot, bring water to a boil with a little salt and oil. Add the rinsed rice and cook according to the package directions, usually about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the rice and make sure it doesn't overcook.
  3. Fluff and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. This helps separate the grains and makes it light and airy. Serve the rice alongside the Chicken Sajji. It is the perfect combination!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Sajji

To make sure your Chicken Sajji is absolutely amazing, here are some tips and tricks:

  • Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better your dish will be. Use fresh spices and a good quality chicken.
  • Marination is Key: Don't rush the marinating process! The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become.
  • Temperature Matters: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This is the best way to ensure that it’s cooked to perfection.
  • Don't Overcook: Overcooked chicken is dry chicken. Be careful not to overcook the chicken.
  • Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken extra tender and juicy.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount. For those who love heat, feel free to add more!
  • Oven Variations: If you have a convection oven, you can use it to roast the chicken. This will help the skin crisp up even more. Reduce the oven temperature by about 25°F (about 15°C) and reduce the cooking time slightly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Chicken Sajji is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions and variations to spice things up:

  • Garnish: Garnish your Sajji with fresh coriander (cilantro) and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
  • Side Dishes: Serve the Sajji with a simple salad, raita (yogurt dip), or naan bread for a complete meal.
  • Rice Variations: You can add some spices to the rice while cooking to enhance the flavor. Try adding whole spices like cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.
  • Spice Level Adjustments: Add more chili powder for extra heat, or use Kashmiri chili powder for a beautiful red color and mild heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: You can adapt this recipe using vegetables such as cauliflower, potatoes, or bell peppers. Marinate them in the same spice blend and roast them until tender. Serve with rice and a refreshing yogurt dip.
  • Make it a Wrap: Use the chicken as a filling for wraps or tacos, along with fresh vegetables and sauces. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of Sajji in a different way. You could also shred the chicken and make delicious sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Chicken Sajji!

There you have it, guys! A delicious and easy-to-follow recipe for Chicken Sajji with Rice. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. It's a fantastic meal for any occasion. The combination of the tender, flavorful chicken and the fluffy, aromatic rice is simply irresistible. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a weekend get-together, or any time you want to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to create a meal that will leave everyone wanting more!

Don't forget to share your creations and let me know how it went. Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I hope you liked this recipe. Do tell me about your experience making this Chicken Sajji.