Spicy Air-Fried Sri Lankan Chicken with Tamarind Glaze

This weight-loss-friendly recipe is a Sri Lankan-inspired twist on the original, featuring lean chicken breast marinated in aromatic spices and air-fried to perfection. The tamarind glaze adds a tangy, low-calorie flavor boost, making it a delicious and healthy option for Sri Lankans looking to shed pounds while enjoying bold, traditional flavors.

Cooking Method:

Cooking Time:

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Weight loss based ingredients

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (lean protein)
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste (low-calorie flavoring)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (metabolism-boosting)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder (digestive health)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (immune support)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder (digestive health)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (antioxidant-rich)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut sugar (low-glycemic sweetener)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil (healthy fat)
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (high-fiber)

Cooking Methods (Instructions) Focused for Weight Loss

1. In a bowl, combine tamarind paste, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, garlic powder, ginger powder, lime juice, and coconut sugar to create a marinade. Mix well.

2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the air fryer basket with coconut oil to prevent sticking.

4. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer in a single layer. Air-fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete, weight-loss-friendly meal.

Weight Loss Tips & Advice

1. Use skinless, boneless chicken breasts to reduce fat content while retaining high protein levels.

2. Air-frying requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep-frying.

3. Tamarind paste adds a tangy flavor without adding extra calories, making it a great substitute for sugary sauces.

4. Pair this dish with high-fiber vegetables like gotukola or spinach to increase satiety and aid digestion.

5. Avoid adding extra salt to reduce sodium intake, which can help prevent water retention.

Conclusion

This Spicy Air-Fried Sri Lankan Chicken with Tamarind Glaze is an excellent choice for Sri Lankans aiming to lose weight. It incorporates lean protein, metabolism-boosting spices, and low-calorie flavorings, making it both nutritious and satisfying. The air-frying method ensures a crispy texture without excess oil, while the tamarind glaze adds a tangy twist that complements traditional Sri Lankan flavors. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet to support your weight loss journey while staying true to your culinary roots.

Advice and tips conclude: Always pair your meals with regular physical activity and stay hydrated to maximize weight loss results.