Authentic Turkish Chicken Tava Recipe

Turkish cuisine is known for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and wholesome cooking techniques. One such classic dish is Turkish Chicken Tava, a hearty and flavorful chicken dish cooked in a pan or clay pot with vibrant vegetables and bold spices. Whether you call it chicken tava Incirlik recipe, chicken tava recipe, or chicken tava Turkish recipe, this dish is a staple in Turkish households and an absolute delight for food lovers.

History of Turkish Chicken Tava

The origins of authentic Turkish chicken tava recipe can be traced back to the Ottoman era, where slow-cooked meals in large communal pots were popular. "Tava" refers to a pan, indicating that this dish is typically prepared in a shallow pan or clay dish. Over time, different regions have developed their own variations, such as the Cypriot chicken tava recipe, each adding a unique touch to the dish while preserving its essence.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 30 minutes (optional for enhanced flavor)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Serves: 4-5 people

Taste and Texture

The best chicken tava recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors. The chicken is tender and juicy, infused with a blend of Mediterranean spices. The vegetables add a slight sweetness, while the tomatoes provide a tangy base. The texture is a mix of soft and slightly crispy, thanks to the method of pan-searing before slow cooking.

Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Tava Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste

For the Vegetables:

• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 2 bell peppers (red & green, sliced)
• 2 large tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for deeper flavor)
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Lemon wedges

How to Make Chicken Tava Turkish Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, paprika, cumin, oregano, lemon juice, and garlic paste.
• Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

• Heat a large pan or clay pot over medium heat.
• Add a little olive oil and sauté the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
• Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
• Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, and cinnamon. Stir well.
• Pour in water or chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

• Return the sautéed chicken to the pan and mix well with the vegetables.
• Cover and let it cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Once the sauce thickens and the chicken is tender, turn off the heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with Turkish rice pilaf or pide bread for an authentic experience.
• Pair with a fresh Mediterranean salad or grilled vegetables.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing touch.

Variations of Chicken Tava

1. Chicken Sac Tava Recipe: Cook the dish in a traditional Turkish sac (shallow pan) for a more authentic taste.
2. Spicy Chicken Tava: Add extra red chili flakes or hot paprika for a fiery version.
3. Cheesy Chicken Tava: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving for a delicious twist.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

This authentic Turkish chicken tava recipe is a must-try for lovers of Mediterranean flavors. Whether you're making a chicken tava Incirlik recipe, Cypriot chicken tava recipe, or chicken sac tava recipe, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal.

FAQs 

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Bone-in chicken adds more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish in the oven?

Absolutely! Transfer everything to a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes.

3. What is the difference between Chicken Tava and Chicken Sac Tava?

Chicken Sac Tava is cooked in a shallow metal pan (sac), giving it a slightly crispier texture compared to traditional tava cooking.