Creamy Butter Chicken

Creamy Butter Chicken, a classic dish originating from India, is a creamy and flavorful recipe known for its tender chicken cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. While it's a dish beloved for its taste, when prepared mindfully, it can also offer health benefits, especially due to the spices and ingredients used, alongside the nutritional value of chicken.

Creamy Butter Chicken

Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe:

Ingredients:

- 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1 cup plain yogurt

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice

- Salt to taste

- 2 tablespoons butter or ghee

- 1 cinnamon stick

- 3-4 green cardamom pods

- 3-4 cloves

- 1 cup tomato puree

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions for Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   - In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 1-2 hours or overnight for better flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   - Heat butter or ghee in a pan. Add cinnamon, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for a minute.

   - Add the marinated chicken and cook until it's browned and cooked through. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   - In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed. Add tomato puree, red chili powder, paprika, and garam masala. Cook until the sauce thickens and the oil separates from the sides.

4. Combine and Simmer:

   - Add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes.

   - Crush the dried fenugreek leaves between your palms and sprinkle them into the sauce. Stir well.

5. Finish with Cream:

   - Pour in the heavy cream and gently mix it into the sauce. Let it simmer for a few more minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   - Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot with rice, naan, or bread.

Creamy Butter Chicken

Health Benefits

- Chicken is a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

- Spices like ginger, garlic, and garam masala used in the recipe have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

- Tomatoes used in the sauce provide vitamins A, C, and antioxidants like lycopene.

                Enjoy this indulgent dish in moderation, savoring the blend of spices and creamy texture, while benefiting from the nutrients inherent in its ingredients. Adjust spice levels according to taste and dietary preferences for a delightful meal experience.

Creamy Butter Chicken