What if we told you that your chicken just got a caffeine boost? While pairing coffee with chicken may not be the most conventional combination, this unique recipe has been generating buzz among chefs online for its burst of flavors. Curious if this combo works? Indianexpress.com reached out to two chefs for their insights on this dish.

Celebrity chef Ananya Banerjee explained that although the pairing of coffee and cumin in a chicken dish might seem odd, it’s gaining popularity for its rich and unique flavor profile. “The bitterness of coffee surprisingly complements the earthy, warm notes of cumin, resulting in a complex and aromatic dish,” she said.

She highlighted that coffee adds depth and a subtle smokiness, while cumin brings a savory, slightly spicy element that beautifully enhances the chicken. When used as a rub, the primary taste of coffee may diminish, but it contributes a lovely, nuanced flavor to the dish.

Here’s how to make this dish:
Prepare the Rub: In a small bowl, combine ground coffee, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Season the Chicken: Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and evenly rub the spice mixture over both sides.
Marinate: Allow the chicken to sit for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. For a deeper flavor, refrigerate for a few hours or overnight.
Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with coriander or parsley and enjoy with rice or bread for an easy, healthy meal.
Manoj Pandey, Partner Chef at The Piano Man, noted that coffee-cumin chicken offers a unique and acquired taste. “The bitterness of coffee blends harmoniously with the earthiness of cumin, creating a delightful combination. Coffee adds richness, while cumin enhances the overall appeal of the dish, especially when paired with garlic, onions, and spices,” he shared.

To prepare Coffee Cumin Chicken at home, he suggested marinating the chicken for half an hour with ground cumin, strong brewed coffee, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and olive oil.

After marinating, cook the chicken in a pan until golden brown, then set it aside. In the same pan, add onions and garlic, along with some additional cooked coffee, cumin, and honey or sugar. Return the chicken to the pan, cover it, and let it cook for 20 minutes. Garnish with coriander or parsley, and enjoy with rice or bread for a quick and healthy meal.