Curry, spice, and everything chilled. This summer, BKC – Biryani Kebab Chai London – brings you […]
Pepper Chicken
About This Dish
Pepper Chicken is a bold, aromatic South Indian dish that’s celebrated for its deep black pepper flavour and comforting warmth. Unlike chilli-heavy curries, this semi-dry preparation delivers a slow-building heat from freshly ground black pepper. The resulting spice profile is earthy, stimulating, and incredibly moreish. Juicy chicken pieces are sautéed with curry leaves, ginger, garlic, and caramelised onions for a thick, clinging masala that coats every bite.
What sets it apart is the way it delivers complexity using simple, natural ingredients—no overpowering sauces or excessive heat. Instead, it balances warmth, fragrance, and savoury depth in a way both rustic and refined. For those in the UK who enjoy spice but want something more layered than just “hot,” Pepper Chicken offers a deeply satisfying experience. It’s a versatile dish too—served as a main with parotta or rice, or as a starter at Indian restaurant.
History & Tradition
Pepper Chicken traces its origins to the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, regions famed for their spice cultivation and bold, rustic cooking. Long before red chillies came to India, black pepper was the primary source of heat in cooking. Referred to as “black gold” by traders and conquerors alike, pepper was once a globally coveted spice, central to India’s culinary and commercial history.
In traditional South Indian kitchens, Pepper Chicken began as a homestyle recipe, created to showcase the prized local peppercorns. Over time, it became a comfort food in its own right—served during family gatherings, Sunday lunches, or festive meals. Its semi-dry style made it ideal for mopping up with flaky parottas or crispy dosas, and that tradition continues in modern Indian restaurants across India and the UK.
What Makes It Special
What makes Pepper Chicken at BKC London truly unique is its singular focus on freshly ground black pepper. In a cuisine often known for its use of dozens of spices, this dish stands out for its restraint—showcasing how one spice, when used with skill, can carry an entire dish. The pepper brings a warm, woody heat that deepens as you eat, perfectly complemented by curry leaves, slow-cooked onions, and a touch of tang from the marinade.
The result is an irresistible balance of aroma, texture, and spice. The semi-dry masala clings to each piece of chicken, intensifying the flavour with every bite. Whether paired with jeera rice, layered parottas, or served dry as a starter, Pepper Chicken appeals to both traditionalists and newcomers. It’s rich, fragrant, and unapologetically bold—a perfect example of how minimal ingredients can deliver maximum flavour.
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Ananya Mehta
The Chicken Tandoori Lollypop took me straight back to Delhi evenings. Juicy, smoky, and packed with bold tandoori flavour, every bite was delicious. The marination was just right—spicy but not overpowering. Loved the crispy char on the outside. This is comfort food with flair. Perfect for sharing, though I could easily eat a whole plate myself.
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Oliver James
Absolutely loved the Chicken Tandoori Lollypop. The chicken was tender and the smoky flavour from the grill really stood out. It had just the right amount of spice and the presentation was fun and inviting. Great as a starter or even just with drinks. Definitely coming back for this one. A brilliant twist on classic tandoori.
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Emily Rose
What a flavour-packed snack! The Chicken Tandoori Lollypop was perfectly grilled with a crispy finish and the inside was so juicy. The tandoori spices were rich and warming, without being too spicy. It is the ideal dish to kick off a meal or enjoy with friends. Authentic taste with a modern edge—loved every bite.
FAQs
A: Not in the typical chilli-hot way. It has a slow, warming heat from black pepper that builds gently on the palate.
A: It’s fantastic with parotta, basmati rice, or even as a dry starter with a squeeze of lemon on top.
A: Pepper Chicken is usually semi-dry—coated in thick masala rather than swimming in sauce.
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