Poppy-seed crusted Chicken

Author Notes

Back when I was working in Mumbai, cooking lunch used to be a whirlwind affair. I'd pack something half-done or something steaming hot into a tiffin box and rush off on my scootie. More often than not, I spent all my money ordering from the deli next to my office building. Greasy curries, hard-as-rock chapatis and raita made with yogurt well-past its expiry date. After I tired of that, this chicken is what I came up with...light, cripsy and holds well even if you're chugging along with it on a crowded public train for hours. The crust does not have egg or breadcrumbs which prevents the chicken from becoming soggy or greasy and for a bit of heat I like to add pinches of smoked paprika. —Amrita