Indulgent Butter Chicken Paired with Garlic Naan Bliss

 

This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or when you're craving something rich and flavorful. The creamy, spiced Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with warm, garlicky naan bread.

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Ingredients

For the Butter Chicken:

For the Marinade:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Salt to taste

For the Gravy:

• 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 3 medium tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 cup heavy cream (or fresh cream)
• 1 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

For the Garlic Naan:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1/4 cup warm water (as needed for kneading)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight for maximum flavor).

2. Preparing the Butter Chicken:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through (about 7–10 minutes). Remove and set aside.

2. Make the Gravy: In the same pan, melt 3 tbsp butter. Add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Tomato Base: Add the pureed tomatoes, red chili powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Cook this mixture until the oil starts separating from the sauce (about 10–12 minutes).

4. Blend (Optional): For a smoother gravy, you can blend this mixture using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender, then return it to the pan.

5. Finish the Gravy: Stir in the cream, kasuri methi, sugar, and garam masala. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes on low heat.

6. Combine: Add the cooked chicken back into the gravy. Let it simmer for another 5–10 minutes to absorb all the flavors. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

3. Making Garlic Naan:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the yogurt and oil, then slowly incorporate the warm water. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic (about 5–7 minutes). Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 1 hour.

2. Shaping the Naan: After the dough has rested, divide it into small balls (about 6-8). Roll each ball out into an oval shape (about 1/4-inch thick).

3. Cook the Naan: Heat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Brush the top side of the naan with water, place it water-side down on the hot skillet, and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbles start to form.

4. Add Garlic: Flip the naan and immediately brush with melted butter and sprinkle with minced garlic. Cook the other side for 1-2 minutes, pressing it down to help cook evenly.

   
   
   

5. Serve: Once done, remove from the heat and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

4. Serving:

Serve the rich, creamy butter chicken with hot, garlicky naan on the side. Garnish the butter chicken with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream for an extra touch.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	650 kcal	32%
Total Fat	36g	55%
Saturated Fat	18g	90%
Cholesterol	125 mg	42%
Sodium	850 mg	35%
Total Carbohydrates	50g	17%
Dietary Fiber	4g	16%
Sugars	7g	—
Protein	35g	70%
Vitamin A	25%	—
Vitamin C	20%	—
Calcium	15%	—
Iron	20%	—

Note: Nutritional values are estimated and may vary based on portion size, exact ingredients, and preparation methods.

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Enjoy this luxurious Butter Chicken with Garlic Naan as a rich and satisfying meal!