Chicken Frankies, also known as chicken wraps or rolls, are a beloved street food originating from India. A fusion of Indian flavors wrapped in a soft flatbread, Frankies are a portable, delicious meal option. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a comforting snack, making Chicken Frankies at home is a rewarding experience. This article will cover the history of Chicken Frankies, detailed ingredients, a step-by-step recipe, nutritional facts, and an FAQ section to help you perfect this recipe.
The History of Chicken Frankies
Frankies trace their roots back to Mumbai, India, where they were first introduced in the 1960s. Inspired by Lebanese shawarma and the traditional Indian paratha, a Mumbai-based restaurant named “Tibb’s Frankie” created this unique blend of flavors. The dish quickly became a hit due to its versatility and ease of consumption. Over the years, Frankies evolved with various fillings, from chicken and paneer to vegetables and eggs, making them suitable for a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients for Chicken Frankies
Below is a breakdown of the ingredients for the filling, the flatbread (roti), and the assembly.
For the Chicken Filling
- Chicken: 500 grams, boneless, cut into small pieces or strips
- Yogurt: 1/2 cup (for marination)
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Coriander Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
- Chaat Masala: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Oil: 2 tablespoons (for cooking)
- Salt: To taste
For the Flatbread (Paratha)
- Whole Wheat Flour: 2 cups
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup (optional, for a softer texture)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Water: As needed (to knead the dough)
For Assembly
- Onions: 2 medium, thinly sliced
- Green Chilies: 2, finely chopped (optional)
- Coriander Leaves: A handful, finely chopped
- Eggs: 2, whisked (for coating)
- Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (optional)
- Chutney: Green chutney or mint chutney, as desired
- Ketchup: For added flavor
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Frankies
1. Prepare the Dough for Flatbread (Paratha)
- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour (if using), salt, and oil.
- Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a soft, pliable dough.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, chaat masala, lemon juice, and salt.
- Add the chicken pieces to this marinade and mix well, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Cook the Chicken Filling
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the masala coats it evenly.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Roll and Cook the Flatbread (Paratha)
- Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a ball.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin, round flatbread.
- Heat a skillet or tawa over medium heat. Cook each flatbread for 1–2 minutes on each side, applying a little oil or butter, until golden brown spots appear.
5. Assemble the Frankie
- Place a cooked flatbread on a flat surface.
- Spread a thin layer of green chutney or ketchup on the flatbread.
- Add a portion of the chicken filling in the center.
- Top with sliced onions, green chilies, coriander leaves, and grated cheese (if using).
- Brush the edges of the flatbread with whisked egg and fold the sides over the filling to form a wrap.
6. Final Cook
- Heat a skillet or tawa and cook the wrapped Frankie, seam side down, for 1–2 minutes.
- Flip and cook the other side for an additional 1–2 minutes, ensuring the egg coating binds and the wrap is golden brown.
- Serve hot with extra chutney or ketchup on the side.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 1 Frankie)
- Calories: 320-350
- Protein: 18-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Fiber: 3-5 grams
- Sodium: 400-450 mg
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient quantities and substitutions.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Frankies
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Rest the dough to ensure soft and pliable flatbreads.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.
- Customize the fillings with your favorite vegetables or sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use store-bought tortillas instead of homemade flatbreads?
Yes, you can use store-bought tortillas for convenience, but homemade flatbreads provide a more authentic taste.
2. Can I make Chicken Frankies ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken filling and dough in advance. Assemble and cook the Frankies just before serving for the best texture.
3. Are there vegetarian alternatives?
Absolutely! Paneer, tofu, or mixed vegetables can be used as a filling instead of chicken.
4. How can I make the Frankies spicier?
Add extra red chili powder to the marinade or use spicy chutney during assembly.
5. Can I skip the egg coating?
Yes, the egg coating adds richness, but you can skip it or replace it with a vegan egg substitute.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover Frankies tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.
Making Chicken Frankies at home allows you to enjoy a healthier, customizable version of this popular street food. With a well-balanced combination of flavors and textures, these wraps are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Follow the steps above, experiment with fillings, and savor the delicious results!