Chicken Ceylon Style

Prep: 120 min Cuisine: Indian

A flavorful Indian-inspired chicken dish with tangy buttermilk marinade, aromatic spices, and rich curry flavors, perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy, and hearty meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup buttermilk or yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 to 2.5 pounds fryers, disjointed
  • 2 tablespoons butter or oleo
  • 2 onions, chopped fine
  • 1.5 tablespoons salt
  • 0.5 tablespoon ginger
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Mix buttermilk and garlic powder in a bowl.
  2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and let sit for 2 hours or more.
  3. Baste and turn the chicken often while cooking at room temperature.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of turmeric or cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you don’t have buttermilk, plain yogurt works well as a substitute. Make sure to mix the buttermilk and garlic powder thoroughly to ensure even coating on the chicken. For a vegetarian variation, try using tofu or vegetables as the main ingredient, inspired by Indian recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Ceylon Style with fragrant basmati rice or naan to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of Indian Roasted Corn adds a sweet contrast, while a fresh cucumber salad can provide a refreshing crunch. Pair with a glass of lassi for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain its tenderness. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chicken Ceylon Style contains roughly 458 calories, with 20g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (113% of the Daily Value), iron (71% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1623mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).

458 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 20.3g 41% DV
Total Fat 14.5g 19% DV
Carbs 76g 28% DV
Fiber 31.7g 100% DV
Sugar 5.7g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1623.3mg 71% DV
Potassium 1343.7mg 29% DV
Cholesterol 24.9mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 30.8mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 1mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 380.3mg 29% DV
Iron 12.9mg 71% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of fryers?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They are juicier and can handle longer marinating times, which enhances the flavor. Just adjust cooking times slightly, as thighs may require a few extra minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 2 hours?

Marinating for at least 2 hours is recommended to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken, but if you're short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference. Just be cautious not to marinate too long, as the acidity can change the texture.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’s best to use it within 2 months for optimal flavor. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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