How to Make Chicken Godhamba Roti (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chicken Godhamba Roti is a beloved Sri Lankan street food that combines thin, flaky godhamba roti (a type of flatbread) with a flavorful, spiced chicken filling. Popular across Sri Lanka, this dish is often found at bustling roadside eateries and night markets, offering a quick, satisfying, and protein-rich meal. Its origins trace back to the culinary melting pot of Sri Lanka, where local spices and cooking traditions blend to create unforgettable flavors. The taste of Chicken Godhamba Roti is a harmonious balance of tender, mildly spiced chicken and soft, slightly chewy roti. The roti is hand-stretched until paper-thin, then filled and folded into a parcel before being cooked on a hot griddle. This dish is particularly popular for breakfast or lunch, and is cherished for its convenience and wholesome ingredients. For those seeking authentic Sri Lankan cuisine that is both comforting and health-conscious, Chicken Godhamba Roti is a perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (Atta or all-purpose can be used)
- 1/3 cup Water (Adjust for dough consistency)
- 200g Chicken breast (Finely chopped or minced)
- 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
- 1 Green chili (Sliced, adjust to taste)
- 1 small Tomato (Chopped)
- 6-8 Curry leaves (Fresh)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
- to taste Salt
- 2 tsp Coconut oil (For cooking)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the dough by mixing whole wheat flour
Prepare the dough by mixing whole wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and water. Knead until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and rest for 10 minutes.
Step 2 · Heat 1 tsp coconut oil in a pan
Heat 1 tsp coconut oil in a pan. Sauté onions, garlic, green chili, and curry leaves until fragrant.
Step 3 · Add chopped chicken
Add chopped chicken, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Cook until chicken is no longer pink.
Step 4 · Stir in tomatoes and cook until soft and mixture is dry
Stir in tomatoes and cook until soft and mixture is dry. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside to cool.
Step 5 · Divide dough into two balls
Divide dough into two balls. On a greased surface, stretch each ball as thin as possible without tearing.
Step 6 · Place half the chicken filling in the center of each stretched roti
Place half the chicken filling in the center of each stretched roti. Fold edges over to form a parcel.
Step 7 · Heat remaining oil on a nonstick pan or griddle
Heat remaining oil on a nonstick pan or griddle. Cook each parcel on both sides until golden brown and crisp.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy version of Chicken Godhamba Roti is made with whole wheat flour and lean chicken breast, minimizing refined grains and saturated fats. It is lower in calories than traditional versions thanks to minimal oil and increased vegetable content. This makes it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters looking to enjoy classic Sri Lankan flavors without compromising on nutrition.
A note on tradition
Chicken Godhamba Roti is an iconic dish found throughout Sri Lanka, especially in urban areas and at street food stalls known as 'kottu kadeys.' It is enjoyed as a filling meal any time of day but is particularly popular for breakfast and lunch. The dish highlights the island's love for flatbreads and spicy fillings, often eaten by busy locals on the go or shared in family gatherings.