Low-Oil Chicken Lollipop – A Pan-Cooked Home-Style Snack

Oil-Free Chicken Lollipop is a modern, health-conscious variation of the popular chicken lollipop. Instead of deep frying, this method relies on spice pastes, corn flour coating, and slow pan cooking to achieve flavour and texture with minimal added fat.

This recipe is suitable for those who enjoy bold flavours while reducing oil consumption.

Why a Low-Oil Method

Reduced Oil Intake

This method avoids deep frying, helping lower overall fat content.

Retains Natural Chicken Flavour

Slow cooking allows spices to blend into the chicken without being masked by oil.

Suitable for Home Cooking

Requires no special equipment or large quantities of oil.

Lighter Than Fried Versions

Feels less heavy compared to restaurant-style chicken lollipops.

Low-Oil Chicken Lollipop Recipe

Ingredients

• ½ kg chicken lollipops
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon pepper powder
• 1 tablespoon corn flour
• 2 pinches cumin (small jeera) powder
• 5 curry leaves
• 2-inch piece ginger
• 5 garlic cloves
• Rock salt – to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chicken masala
  (cinnamon, cloves, fennel, star anise, cardamom)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 4 small onions

Method

1. Wash the chicken lollipops thoroughly.
   Optional: Soak briefly in turmeric and salt water, then rinse.
2. Prepare a marinade with chilli powder, turmeric powder, salt, and lemon juice.
3. Coat the chicken and rest for 15–20 minutes.
4. In a blender, add curry leaves, ginger, garlic, onions, pepper, coriander powder, and chicken masala.
5. Grind into a thick paste using a little water if needed.
6. Mix corn flour with a small amount of water to make a thick coating paste.
7. Lightly coat the marinated chicken lollipops with this paste.
8. Arrange the lollipops in a wide pan without overcrowding.
9. Add the prepared spice paste to the pan.
10. Rinse the blender with a little water and add it to the pan along with any remaining masala.
11. Cover and cook on low heat.
12. Once one side cooks and firms up, gently turn the lollipops.
13. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully done and the masala thickens naturally.

How to Serve

• As a starter or evening snack
• With sliced vegetables or a light dip
• Best served hot

Cooking Tips

• Keep the flame low to avoid burning
• Do not add excess water
• Cover the pan to retain moisture
• Turn gently to maintain shape

Who Should Be Careful

• People with stomach sensitivity or acid reflux
• Those advised to limit spicy foods
• Children and elderly may require milder seasoning
• Individuals with chicken allergies or dietary restrictions

Cooking & Consumption Notes

• Reduce chilli for sensitive digestion
• Consume fresh for best taste
• Avoid repeated reheating

A Modern, Health-Conscious Twist

Low-Oil Chicken Lollipop is a practical example of adapting popular dishes to suit lighter eating preferences. With careful cooking and spice balance, it delivers flavour without deep frying.