
Devilled Chicken
Curries • Sri Lanka
About Devilled Chicken
Stir-fried chicken with capsicum, onion, tomato, and chili paste — SL-Chinese fusion standard.
How to Make Devilled Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Devilled Chicken is one of Sri Lanka's most beloved and iconic dishes, known for its bold, fiery flavor and irresistible aroma. Dating back decades, this classic curry is a favorite at family gatherings, festive occasions, and Sri Lankan restaurants alike. The dish beautifully balances spice, tang, and a subtle sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser for anyone who enjoys robust flavors. The name "devilled" refers to the spicy, vibrant sauce that coats the tender pieces of chicken, infused with fresh chilies, onions, and bell peppers for an authentic Sri Lankan taste experience. What sets Sri Lankan Devilled Chicken apart is its versatility and the way it unites the island’s multicultural culinary influences. Whether enjoyed as a main dish with rice, a side with bread, or as a flavorful appetizer, it delivers a satisfying taste and a burst of color to any meal. This healthy version uses lean chicken breast, minimal oil, and natural spices to deliver full flavor at just 210 calories per serving, making it ideal for health-conscious food lovers around the world. Perfect for those seeking genuine Sri Lankan cuisine with a nutritious twist, this recipe brings the taste of Sri Lanka’s vibrant kitchens right to your table.
Ingredients(for 1 medium plate (approx. 180g cooked chicken with vegetables))
- 300g Chicken breast (skinless, boneless)
- 1 medium Red onion (sliced)
- 1 small Green bell pepper (capsicum, sliced)
- 1 medium Tomato (cut into wedges)
- 2 Fresh green chilies (sliced, adjust for spice)
- 3 Garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger (grated)
- 1 tsp Sri Lankan chili flakes (or chili powder)
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce (low sodium) (adds umami)
- 1 tbsp Tomato sauce (unsweetened)
- 2 tsp White vinegar (for tanginess)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 tbsp Coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 stalks Spring onion (for garnish, optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Cut chicken breast into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, marinate with half the soy sauce, half the vinegar, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinating helps tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor.
- 2
Heat coconut oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and sauté until just cooked and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
5 minutes
Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy.
- 3
In the same pan, add sliced onions, garlic, ginger, and chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant and onions are soft.
3 minutes
Keep heat high for a quick stir-fry, which preserves nutrients.
- 4
Add bell pepper and tomato. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.
2 minutes
Retain crunch for authentic texture and more vitamins.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Devilled Chicken is a great healthy meal because it uses lean chicken breast, a top-quality protein source, and is cooked with minimal oil. The abundance of vegetables adds fiber and micronutrients, while the absence of heavy creams or deep frying means fewer calories and less saturated fat. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a flavorful, satisfying meal that fits into a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle.
This Devilled Chicken is a protein-rich dish, offering 18g protein per serving, which helps in muscle maintenance and satiety. With just 210 calories and moderate fat (12.4g), it suits most calorie-controlled diets. The dish includes vitamins A and C from bell peppers and tomatoes, antioxidants from onions and chilies, and essential minerals like potassium and iron. Low sodium soy sauce and minimal oil keep it heart-friendly, and the use of fresh ingredients maximizes nutritional value.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Marinate the chicken for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
- 💡Tip 2: Use a wok or large non-stick pan for quick, high-heat stir-frying.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust chili level to personal preference without compromising the dish’s signature heat.
Storage & Serving
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan to preserve texture. Avoid freezing to maintain vegetable crunch.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 210.0 kcal |
| Protein | 18.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8.2 g |
| Total Fat | 12.4 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |


