We’ve always loved the bold fusion of flavors in our Chicken Mayo Chutney Recipe, where tender chicken meets creamy mayonnaise and zesty chutney for a mouthwatering twist. Originating from South African kitchens, this dish blends Indian spices with Western simplicity, making it a go-to for quick meals that pack a punch.
Ingredients
For our Chicken Mayo Chutney Recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend South African flavors with simple preparation. We’ve organized them in the order we use them, including prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Chicken: 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and tender results.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced to build a flavorful base.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced to release their aromatic essence early in the process.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated for a zesty kick that enhances the chutney’s spice profile.
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup full-fat mayonnaise, ensuring a creamy texture that binds the dish together.
- Chutney: ½ cup mango chutney, our signature element for that tangy, fruity contrast with Indian-inspired spices.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon curry powder and ½ teaspoon turmeric, combined for depth and vibrant color without overwhelming the flavors.
- Oil: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, used for sautéing to prevent sticking and add subtle richness.
- Salt and Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, adjusted to taste for balanced seasoning.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, added at the end to brighten the creamy sauce.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients, we’re excited to guide you through preparing this flavorful Chicken Mayo Chutney. Let’s break it down step by step for a seamless and delicious outcome.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we need to prep our ingredients for efficiency. Begin by chopping 500g of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Dice one medium yellow onion into fine pieces, mince 3 cloves of garlic, and grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger to release their aromatic flavors. Measure out 1/2 cup of full-fat mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of mango chutney, 1 teaspoon of curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick. Organize these on your workspace to maintain a smooth flow.
Cook the Chicken
We start by cooking the chicken to achieve tender, juicy results. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped chicken thighs, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal texture. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper midway, allowing the spices to infuse a warm, savory aroma that fills the kitchen.
Make the Chutney
To elevate our dish, we enhance the chutney with a quick blend of flavors. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of mango chutney with 1 teaspoon of curry powder and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, stirring vigorously until the mixture forms a vibrant, tangy paste. If desired, add a splash of the fresh lemon juice for extra zing, creating a bold contrast that balances sweet and spicy notes on your palate.
Mix with Mayo
Now we blend the elements for creamy perfection. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken to 1/2 cup of full-fat mayonnaise, gently folding them together with a spoon until the chicken is evenly coated in a luscious, silky layer. Incorporate the prepared chutney mixture, stirring for about 1 minute to ensure every piece is infused with its zesty, aromatic essence, resulting in a harmonious fusion of textures and tastes.
Assemble the Dish
Finally, we bring it all together for serving. Transfer the mayo-chutney coated chicken into a serving dish, garnishing with any leftover fresh ginger or a sprinkle of turmeric for visual appeal. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld, then serve immediately for a refreshing, cool bite that highlights the tender chicken enveloped in creamy, zesty goodness.
Required Tools
To prepare our Chicken Mayo Chutney Recipe smoothly after handling the ingredients and cooking steps, we rely on these essential tools for efficiency and safety.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface essential for chopping the chicken and dicing the onion, garlic, and ginger without mess.
- Sharp knife: Crucial for precise cuts that ensure even cooking of the chicken and vegetables.
- Skillet or frying pan: We use this key tool to sear the chicken until golden brown, promoting flavorful results.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for blending the mayonnaise, mango chutney, and spices into a creamy mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: These accurate tools help us measure ingredients like salt, pepper, and lemon juice for balanced flavors.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the chicken and mixing the chutney paste without damaging cookware.
- Refrigerator: Necessary to chill the assembled dish briefly, enhancing its refreshing texture before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we explore the versatility of our Chicken Mayo Chutney Recipe, making it ahead not only saves time but also lets the flavors meld for an even more delicious result. Let’s break down the key steps to prepare and store components safely, ensuring your dish remains fresh and flavorful.
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
We recommend starting by preparing the raw ingredients up to 24 hours ahead. Begin by chopping the 500g of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Dice the medium yellow onion, mince the garlic, and grate the fresh ginger, then place them in separate sealed bags or containers to prevent sogginess and maintain crispness.
Cooking the Chicken Early
For efficiency, cook the chicken a day before serving. Heat vegetable oil in your skillet over medium heat, add the chopped chicken, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully done, which typically takes 8-10 minutes. Once cooled, transfer the cooked chicken to a covered container and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This step ensures the chicken retains its tender texture without drying out.
Mixing the Chutney Sauce
Prepare the chutney mixture in advance to enhance its tangy profile. In a mixing bowl, combine full-fat mayonnaise, mango chutney, curry powder, and turmeric according to the recipe’s measurements. Stir until you achieve a creamy, zesty paste that coats the back of a spoon. Store this in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 3 days, where the spices will infuse more depth into the sauce.
Assembling and Storing the Full Dish
If you’re planning a full make-ahead approach, combine the cooked chicken with the chutney mixture and fresh lemon juice once everything is prepped. Gently toss to ensure an even, creamy coating, then transfer the assembled dish to a sealed container. Refrigerate for up to 48 hours to let the flavors harmonize. Before serving, give it a quick stir and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for optimal taste and texture.
Storage Tips and Guidelines
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Reheating or Serving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chopped Raw Chicken | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge | Cook immediately upon use |
| Cooked Chicken | Up to 2 days | Covered container in fridge | Reheat gently in skillet |
| Chutney Mixture | Up to 3 days | Airtight jar in fridge | Stir well before using |
| Fully Assembled Dish | Up to 48 hours | Sealed container in fridge | Serve chilled or at room temperature |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Chicken Mayo Chutney Recipe, a simple yet vibrant dish that’s perfect for busy days. It’s our go-to for blending bold flavors with ease, making every meal memorable.
Try tweaking it with your favorite spices or herbs to make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Enjoy the fusion and let us know how yours turns out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Mayo Chutney?
Chicken Mayo Chutney is a flavorful South African dish blending tender chicken with creamy mayonnaise and zesty chutney. It fuses Indian spices like curry powder and turmeric with simple Western cooking, creating a quick, refreshing meal that’s perfect for everyday dining.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Mayo Chutney?
You’ll need 500g boneless chicken thighs, a medium yellow onion, garlic, fresh ginger, full-fat mayonnaise, mango chutney, curry powder, turmeric, vegetable oil, salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice. These ingredients combine for a tangy, creamy flavor that’s easy to prepare.
How do you make Chicken Mayo Chutney?
Start by chopping chicken and dicing onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook chicken in a skillet until golden and seasoned. Mix mango chutney with curry powder and turmeric for a paste, then combine with cooked chicken and mayonnaise. Chill briefly before serving for the best taste and texture.
What tools are required to prepare Chicken Mayo Chutney?
Essential tools include a cutting board, sharp knife, skillet or frying pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon, and a refrigerator. These help ensure safe, efficient preparation and optimal flavor blending.
Can I make Chicken Mayo Chutney ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, cook chicken a day ahead, and mix the chutney sauce early to let spices infuse. This saves time and enhances flavors, making it ideal for busy schedules.
How should I store Chicken Mayo Chutney?
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the chutney mixture separate for up to 2 days. Reheat chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave, and combine just before serving for the freshest taste.
Is Chicken Mayo Chutney spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level from curry powder and turmeric, but you can adjust it to your preference. If you like it milder, reduce the curry powder; for more heat, add extra spices during preparation.