A rich and creamy Indian dish featuring marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato and cream sauce.
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In a bowl, combine the chicken chunks with lemon juice, paprika or chili powder, crushed garlic and ginger, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Place the marinated chicken pieces in the air fryer and cook for 8 minutes, or until lightly charred and cooked through. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken or pan-sear it for about 6 minutes, until golden and cooked.
In a pan over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion, garlic, cashew nuts, green chilies (if using), cinnamon stick, and tomatoes. Sauté until the onions are soft and the tomatoes have broken down.
Transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender, add 1 cup of water, and blend until you get a smooth paste.
Return the blended sauce to the pan over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken pieces, tomato paste, cooking cream, and garam masala. Stir to combine and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Add salt to taste, if needed.
Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Serve the butter chicken hot with basmati rice and paratha on the side. Garnish with sliced red onion and additional chopped coriander or parsley.
The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
If you like a richer sauce, add a bit more cooking cream toward the end of simmering.
For an extra smooth sauce, strain the blended mixture through a sieve before adding it back to the pan.
Air-frying the chicken gives a slightly smoky flavor that works well with the sauce.
How can I make butter chicken healthier or suitable for a low-calorie diet?
To make butter chicken healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts and reducing the amount of butter and cream. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a portion of the cream to maintain creaminess while cutting calories. Additionally, serve it with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice for a low-carb option.
What are some good side dishes to serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with fresh basmati rice, paratha, or naan. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Can I make butter chicken in advance and how should I store it?
Yes, you can make butter chicken in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use as a substitute for cooking cream in butter chicken?
If you don't have cooking cream, you can substitute it with coconut milk for a dairy-free option or use a mixture of milk and cornstarch to thicken it. Another alternative is to blend silken tofu with a bit of water for a creamy texture without the fat.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best butter chicken flavor?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, you should let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the spices and yogurt to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
