How to Make Chicken Keema Pav with Cheese (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chicken Keema Pav with Cheese is a beloved Mumbai street food, blending spicy minced chicken (keema) with soft pav buns and a layer of melted cheese. Originating from Maharashtra, this dish has become a staple across India, especially in urban centers. The keema is cooked with aromatic masalas, onions, tomatoes, and fresh coriander, offering a burst of flavors in every bite. Adding cheese provides a creamy texture that balances the spice and enhances the richness. This lunch recipe is perfect for those seeking hearty, protein-rich meals that satisfy without excess calories. Chicken Keema Pav is often enjoyed during local festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, and in homes across Maharashtra, where families gather to indulge in street-style delicacies. The combination of keema and pav symbolizes the fusion of traditional Indian flavors with contemporary tastes, making it a versatile dish for lunch or brunch. Its popularity has inspired numerous regional adaptations, each adding unique touches to the classic preparation.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat oil in a tawa or kadhai
Heat oil in a tawa or kadhai. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Step 2 · Add garlic
Add garlic, ginger, and green chilli. Fry for a minute until aromatic.
Step 3 · Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft. Add turmeric, garam masala, red chilli powder, and salt.
Step 4 · Add chicken keema and stir well
Add chicken keema and stir well. Cook on medium flame, breaking lumps, until keema turns white and absorbs masala.
Step 5 · Sprinkle coriander leaves and mix
Sprinkle coriander leaves and mix. Adjust seasoning. Cook until keema is dry but moist.
Step 6 · Slice pav horizontally
Slice pav horizontally, lightly toast on tawa with minimal oil. Place a generous spoon of keema, top with grated cheese, and cover with pav lid.
Step 7 · Heat assembled pav briefly on tawa to melt cheese
Heat assembled pav briefly on tawa to melt cheese. Serve hot with lemon wedges and extra coriander.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Chicken Keema Pav with Cheese recipe is health-conscious due to its lean protein base, whole wheat pav, and controlled cheese portion. By incorporating minimal oil and fresh vegetables, it maintains nutrients while reducing unhealthy fats. It’s filling, supports weight management, and is ideal for those tracking macros, making it a smart choice for lunch.
A note on tradition
Chicken Keema Pav is a classic Mumbai street food, often enjoyed during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Eid in Maharashtra. Its roots are in the vibrant food culture of Mumbai, where keema pav stalls are popular among locals and tourists. The dish is typically eaten as a hearty lunch or brunch, reflecting the fusion of Indian spices and local bread traditions. Variations are found in different regions, with unique masala blends and pav types.