Go Back

Besan Chilla with Paneer Stuffing Recipe

A quick, high-protein Indian breakfast made with gram flour pancakes stuffed with spiced paneer—perfect for a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal any time of the day.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

For Besan Chilla Batter:

  • 1 cup besan gram flour
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • ½ tsp cumin seeds or ajwain
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp yogurt optional
  • Water to make smooth batter
  • 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

For Paneer Stuffing:

  • 1 cup paneer crumbled
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 green chili finely chopped, optional
  • 1 small carrot grated, optional
  • ½ tsp cumin powder
  • ½ tsp coriander powder
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • ¼ tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped coriander

For Cooking:

  • 1 –2 tbsp oil as needed

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  • In a bowl, mix besan, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin/ajwain, and salt.
  • Gradually add water while whisking to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • Add yogurt and chopped coriander.
  • Let the batter rest for 10–15 minutes for better texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Paneer Stuffing

  • Heat a small pan with 1 tsp oil.
  • Sauté onions and green chilies until soft.
  • Add paneer, spices, and salt.
  • Cook for 2–3 minutes and mix well.
  • Turn off heat and add fresh coriander.

Step 3: Cook the Chilla

  • Heat a non-stick pan on medium heat and lightly grease it.
  • Pour a ladle of batter and spread evenly into a thin pancake.
  • Cook until the bottom turns golden, then flip.

Step 4: Stuff and Fold

  • Place paneer stuffing on one half of the chilla.
  • Fold it into a semi-circle.
  • Cook for another 1–2 minutes until crisp.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve hot with chutney, yogurt, or ketchup.

Notes

  • Batter Consistency: Should be smooth and pour able—not too thick or runny.
  • Resting Time: Improves softness and flavour.
  • Healthy Tip: Use minimal oil or a non-stick pan for a low-fat version.
  • Storage: Batter can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
  • Variation: Replace paneer with tofu for a vegan option.
  • Extra Flavour: Add veggies like capsicum, spinach, or tomatoes.