Introduction

Jamie Oliver’s “My Kinda Butter Chicken” is a delicious twist on the classic Indian dish, offering a rich and creamy flavor profile with a simplified cooking process. This recipe captures the essence of traditional butter chicken while making it accessible for home cooks. With fresh ingredients and vibrant spices, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
– Olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 400g canned tomatoes
– 200ml coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh coriander for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Time

The preparation time for this delicious butter chicken is around 15 minutes. This includes washing and chopping the ingredients, as well as marinating the chicken, if desired.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time takes approximately 30 minutes. Thus, the total time required from start to finish is about 45 minutes. This recipe typically yields 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for family meals or small gatherings. Enjoy this flavorful dish with rice or naan for a complete experience.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper.

Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, spices (such as garam masala, cumin, and turmeric), and a drizzle of oil. Mix well and add the chicken pieces. Ensure the chicken is well coated and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and once hot, add the marinated chicken. Sear the pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Create the Sauce

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary and sauté finely chopped onion, garlic, and ginger until soft and fragrant. Stir in tomato puree and cook for a few minutes before adding coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and gently stir to combine. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finish and Serve

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the butter chicken with rice or naan bread. Garnish with fresh coriander if desired.

Notes

Marination Time

For best results, marinate the chicken for a longer period, such as overnight, to deepen the flavors.

Spice Variations

Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference or add additional spices like chili powder for heat.

Gluten-Free Option

Ensure that the yogurt and any other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free if necessary.

Storage Suggestions

Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinade the chicken with yogurt and spices to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Searing

Start by searing the chicken pieces in a hot pan to develop a rich, golden-brown color and lock in juices.

Simmering

Simmer the chicken in sauce to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook through completely.

Blending

Use a blender to create a smooth sauce, ensuring all ingredients are well combined for a creamy texture.

Garnishing

Finish the dish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of yogurt to add brightness and a touch of elegance.

FAQ

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, paneer, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of spices to your taste or add fresh chilies for extra heat.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs well with basmati rice, naan, or a fresh salad.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

This My Kinda Butter Chicken recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining rich flavors and a creamy texture that can satisfy any palate. It’s a perfect meal for gatherings, bringing warmth and comfort to the table. With accessible ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, this dish can be easily mastered, encouraging even novice cooks to try their hand at an Indian-inspired feast.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Biryani

Pair your butter chicken with a fragrant vegetable biryani for a colorful and hearty meal that complements the richness of the chicken.

Naan Bread

Serve your butter chicken with warm, soft naan bread to soak up all the delicious sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Chickpea Curry

For a vegetarian option, consider a chickpea curry that provides a satisfying texture and flavor balance alongside the butter chicken.

Mint Yogurt Sauce

A cooling mint yogurt sauce can perfectly offset the spiciness of the butter chicken, adding a refreshing element to the dish.

Steamed Basmati Rice

Steamed basmati rice is an ideal side to serve with butter chicken, allowing the sauce to shine while providing a mild base for the meal.

Spicy Roasted Cauliflower

For a flavorful side, try spicy roasted cauliflower, which adds a bit of crunch and a touch of heat that complements the butter chicken beautifully.