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Indian Butter Chicken: This velvety-creamy version of the Indian classic combines tenderly marinated chicken with an aromatic tomato-cream sauce. The perfect balance of spices and the gentle preparation make this dish an unforgettable taste experience.
In my kitchen, this dish has developed into an absolute family favorite. The mild yet aromatic sauce delights even children.
Carefully Selected Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Tender meat for optimal juiciness
- Garam masala: Authentic spice blend
- Yogurt: Makes the meat particularly tender
- Ceylon cinnamon: For warm, sweet notes
- Cream: Provides velvety consistency
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Detailed Preparation
- Marinade Preparation:
- Finely grate ginger and garlic. Carefully measure spices. Stir yogurt until creamy. Dice chicken evenly.
- Meat Preparation:
- Thoroughly marinate. Allow to infuse in refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before frying. Sear quickly.
- Sauce Production:
- Sauté onions until translucent. Gently toast spices. Reduce tomatoes. Carefully stir in cream.
- Finalization:
- Adjust seasonings. Reduce sauce until creamy. Add chicken. Warm gently.
In my family, this dish is especially popular because it is mild yet very aromatic.
Perfect Accompaniments
- Serve the butter chicken with fragrant basmati rice
- Freshly baked naan bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce
- A dollop of raita (yogurt cucumber dip) brings refreshing coolness
- Fresh cilantro and a lemon wedge complete the dish
Creative Variations
- Coconut milk instead of cream gives an exotic touch
- Chickpeas make the dish vegetarian
- A spicier version with more chili delights lovers of spicy cuisine
- Cauliflower rice is suitable for low carb
Optimal Storage
- The dish keeps refrigerated for up to three days
- When reheating, add some cream or water to keep the sauce creamy
- Freezing is possible, but it tastes best fresh
- The sauce thickens when standing
Time Management
- Prepare the marinade overnight
- Measure spices in advance
- Cook rice simultaneously
- This organization makes preparation relaxed
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Healthy Adaptations
- Greek yogurt reduces fat content
- More vegetables make the dish more nutritious
- Brown rice provides more fiber
- These variations make the dish lighter
After many years of experience with Indian dishes, this version has proven to be the perfect balance between authenticity and everyday practicality. The combination of tender meat and aromatic sauce makes this dish a real crowd pleaser. I find it particularly fascinating how the long marination makes the meat so incredibly tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I reduce the marination time?
- Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight gives the best results as the meat becomes especially tender.
- → Is this dish very spicy?
- No, using mild paprika and minimal cayenne makes it family-friendly. The spice level can be adjusted to taste.
- → What can I serve with butter chicken?
- Naan bread, cucumber raita, or a simple salad make perfect accompaniments to complete this meal.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
- Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully and often result in more tender meat for this recipe.
- → How do I make the sauce extra creamy?
- The combination of yogurt in the marinade and heavy cream in the sauce creates that signature creamy texture.