1.5 pounds (700g)boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1cupplain yogurt
2tablespoonslemon juice
2tablespoonsof ground cumin
2teaspoonsof ground corianderground
1teaspoonturmeric
1teaspoonpaprika teaspoon
1teaspoongaram masala
0.5teaspoonschili powder(adjust to taste)
4tablespoons unsalted butterdivided
1tablespoonvegetable oil
1big onionfinely chopped
4cloves garlicminced
1inchpiece of gingergrated
1can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1cupheavy cream
2tablespoonstomato paste
1tablespoonhoney (optional)
salt to taste
fresh cilantro choppedfor garnish
Instructions
Marinating the Chicken Start by marinating the chicken to provide delicious tastes. Yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, and chili powder should all be combined in a bowl. Make sure the chicken pieces are thoroughly covered in the marinade before adding them. For best results, marinate the food overnight in the refrigerator with the bowl covered.
Baking the ChickenTurn on the oven to 400 °F (200 °C). On a baking sheet covered with parchment paper, arrange the marinated chicken pieces. Bake the chicken for about 20 minutes, or until it is cooked through and starts to turn a light golden color. While you make the sauce, put the chicken aside.
Preparing the Sauce Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a sizable skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Vegetable oil and finely sliced onions should be added. The onions should be sautéed until they are tender and transparent and have given off a delicious aroma. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger next, simmering for an additional one to two minutes while constantly stirring.
Flavorful Fusion Crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and the remaining ground spices are added when the heat is reduced to a soft simmer. Stir the mixture thoroughly to allow the flavors of the spices to permeate the sauce. Cook for around 5 minutes, making sure the tastes are perfectly balanced.
Chicken Unites with SauceOnce the roasted chicken pieces are added to the skillet, gently toss them until the rich sauce is evenly distributed throughout. Give the chicken five more minutes to stew in the sauce and take in all the delicious flavors.
Creamy IndulgenceIt's time to add creaminess to your butter chicken at this point. Add the heavy cream and stir until the mixture has a luxurious, velvety texture. You can add a spoonful of honey to the dish if you'd like to balance the flavors with a little sweetness. For about 10 minutes, boil the butter chicken on low heat, stirring now and then to keep it from sticking. Keep in mind to salt to taste when seasoning.
Final Touches and ServingMelt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a different small pot. For an additional touch of richness and taste, sprinkle it over the butter chicken once it has melted. Freshly chopped cilantro should be used as a garnish. Prepare to enjoy the flavorful and aromatic sensation that is true butter chicken by serving it with naan bread or over steamed basmati rice.
Notes
Enjoy this delicious recipe for butter chicken as you travel through Indian cuisine!