Devel Chicken
Curries • Sri Lanka
ගැන Devel Chicken
Drier, thicker-sauced variant of devilled chicken, popular at SL-Chinese restaurants.
How to Make Devel Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Devel Chicken, also known as 'Chicken Devil,' is a beloved Sri Lankan dish renowned for its fiery, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. This iconic stir-fried curry is a staple at family gatherings, celebratory feasts, and street food stalls across Sri Lanka. The dish features succulent pieces of chicken tossed with a medley of colorful bell peppers, onions, green chilies, and a mouthwatering blend of Sri Lankan spices. The vibrant red hue and bold flavors make Devel Chicken a true crowd-pleaser, embodying the zest and spice of Sri Lankan cuisine. In Sri Lankan culture, Devel Chicken is often enjoyed as a special treat, paired with rice, fried rice, or flatbreads like paratha. Its roots trace back to the bustling coastal cities, where the Portuguese influence introduced a love for spicy, devilishly hot dishes. Today, it remains a favorite across the island, cherished for its satisfying taste and quick preparation. Whether served at a festive dinner or a casual family meal, Devel Chicken is sure to transport your taste buds to the heart of Sri Lanka. This healthy adaptation uses minimal oil, lean chicken breast, and plenty of fresh vegetables, making it a guilt-free way to experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors. The recipe is designed for international kitchens, using ingredients that are both accessible and true to the dish's origins.
Ingredients(for 1 generous plate (approx. 250g cooked Devel Chicken))
- 300g Boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 medium Red onion (sliced)
- 1 small Green bell pepper (capsicum) (cut into squares)
- 1 small Red bell pepper (cut into squares)
- 2 Green chilies (sliced)
- 2 Garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 1 inch Ginger (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Sri Lankan chili powder (mild or hot as preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon White vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (or coconut sugar)
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tablespoon Coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 stalks Spring onions (sliced for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Marinate the chicken pieces with half the chili powder, half the soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Set aside for at least 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marination helps tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor.
- 2
Heat coconut oil in a large wok or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add ginger and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
2 minutes
Don’t let garlic burn; stir continuously for best aroma.
- 3
Add marinated chicken and stir-fry until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.
5 minutes
Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken.
- 4
Add sliced onions, green chilies, and bell peppers. Stir-fry on high heat for 2-3 minutes to keep veggies crisp.
3 minutes
Quick frying preserves nutrients and texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Devel Chicken recipe is low in saturated fat and high in protein, making it ideal for weight management and muscle maintenance. The abundant use of fresh vegetables increases fiber and micronutrient content, promoting digestive health and satiety. By using lean cuts of chicken and minimal oil, this version reduces overall calories while preserving authentic Sri Lankan flavor.
Devel Chicken is a protein-rich dish that provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and energy. Using lean chicken breast reduces saturated fat, while bell peppers and onions add dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The inclusion of ginger, garlic, and chilies boosts metabolism and supports immune health. Minimal use of oil and sugar keeps the calorie count moderate, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diets. The dish is naturally gluten-free if gluten-free soy sauce is used.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes for deeper flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Use a hot wok for quick stir-frying and vibrant veggies.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust chili levels to match your spice tolerance without sacrificing authenticity.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Devel Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan to retain texture. Freezing is not recommended due to vegetable texture changes.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 205.0 kcal |
| Protein | 17.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9.2 g |
| Total Fat | 11.4 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |