Chicken Keema Kulcha
A delicious Punjabi flatbread stuffed with a spicy and savory minced chicken filling. Cooked on a griddle until golden and fluffy, this kulcha is a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect with a side of raita or chutney.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Kulcha Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and 1 tsp of salt. Whisk to combine.
- c.Add the plain yogurt and 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. Mix with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- d.Gradually add warm water and knead for 8-10 minutes to form a soft, smooth, and pliable dough. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- e.Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for at least 90 minutes, or until it has risen slightly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Chicken Keema Filling
- b.Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
- c.Add the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies. Sauté for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- d.Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn soft and mushy.
- e.Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and 0.75 tsp of salt. Mix well and cook the spices for 1 minute.
- f.Add the minced chicken to the pan. Use a spatula to break up any lumps. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and all the moisture has evaporated. The filling must be completely dry.
- g.Turn off the heat. Stir in the garam masala and freshly chopped coriander leaves. Transfer the filling to a plate and allow it to cool down completely.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stuff and Roll the Kulchas
- b.Once the dough has rested, gently knead it for one minute.
- c.Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and roll them into smooth balls.
- d.Take one dough ball and flatten it with your palms into a 3-inch disc. Create a small depression in the center.
- e.Place 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled chicken keema filling in the center.
- f.Carefully bring the edges of the dough together, pleating as you go, and seal the filling inside. Pinch the top firmly to close the ball.
- g.Lightly dust the stuffed ball with flour and gently roll it into a 6-7 inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick. Apply even pressure to avoid the filling from tearing the dough.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Kulchas
- b.Heat a tawa or a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat.
- c.Carefully place the rolled kulcha onto the hot tawa. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until small bubbles start to appear on the surface.
- d.Flip the kulcha. Brush about 1/2 tsp of ghee on the cooked side.
- e.Cook the second side for another 1-2 minutes. Flip again, brush ghee on the other side, and press down gently with a spatula.
- f.Continue to flip and cook for a total of 4-5 minutes, until both sides are golden brown and the kulcha is cooked through and fluffy.
- g.Repeat the process for the remaining dough balls.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Serve the Chicken Keema Kulchas immediately while they are hot and soft. They pair wonderfully with mint raita, plain yogurt, or a tangy pickle.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the keema filling is completely dry and cooled before stuffing. A wet or warm filling will make the dough soggy and difficult to roll.
- 2Knead the dough until it is very soft and elastic. This is key to achieving soft, fluffy kulchas.
- 3Do not roll the stuffed kulchas too thin, as this can cause the filling to break through the dough.
- 4Cook the kulchas on a consistent medium heat. High heat will brown them too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside doughy.
- 5For a tandoor-like finish, you can sprinkle some nigella seeds (kalonji) and chopped cilantro on the kulcha before the final roll.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the chicken keema with crumbled paneer (paneer bhurji), mashed potatoes (aloo), or a mix of finely chopped vegetables like cauliflower and carrots.
HealthierHealthier
Use a 50/50 mix of whole wheat flour (atta) and all-purpose flour (maida) for a more fibrous and nutritious dough.
SpicierSpicier
Increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder, or add a pinch of black pepper to the keema filling for an extra kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The minced chicken filling provides high-quality lean protein, which is crucial for muscle building, tissue repair, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Provides Sustained Energy
The carbohydrates from the flour in the kulcha serve as a primary source of energy, helping to fuel your body and brain throughout the day.
Rich in B-Vitamins
Chicken is a good source of B-vitamins, particularly niacin (B3) and B6, which are essential for energy production, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Frequently asked questions
One homemade Chicken Keema Kulcha contains approximately 540-580 calories, depending on the amount of ghee and oil used.
