One of my all-time favorite Indian recipes is a classic dish that is loved by many - butter chicken. This creamy and flavorful dish originated in Northern India and has since become a beloved staple in Indian restaurants and households all over the world. It's a perfect balance of spices, creaminess, and tanginess that will leave your taste buds wanting more. In this article, I will share my personal take on this iconic recipe, along with some tips and tricks to make it just as delicious as the ones you've had at your favorite Indian restaurant.
Looking to add some Indian flavors to your beer can chicken? Try this recipe for Indian spiced lentils! The combination of aromatic spices and hearty lentils make for a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the chicken. Plus, lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular Indian dish that features tender chicken in a creamy and flavorful tomato-based sauce. This recipe is a perfect way to add some Indian flair to your beer can chicken. The rich and creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken, creating a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Indian Chicken Korma
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Extra Virgin Olive
Korma is a classic Indian dish that features tender pieces of chicken in a rich and creamy sauce made with yogurt, cream, and a variety of spices. The dish is typically mild in heat, making it a great option for those who are not fans of spicy food. The creamy sauce of this chicken korma pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the beer can chicken, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
This Indian shrimp curry is a delicious and flavorful way to add some seafood to your beer can chicken dinner. The shrimp is cooked in a flavorful curry sauce made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. The combination of juicy shrimp and tender chicken make for a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
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Indian Chickpea Coconut Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Curry
Looking for a vegetarian option to pair with your beer can chicken? This Indian chickpea coconut curry is a great choice. The creamy coconut milk sauce is packed with flavor from a variety of spices and the chickpeas add a protein and fiber boost to the dish. The combination of the coconut curry and the smoky chicken is a match made in heaven.
Of course, we can't talk about Indian cuisine without mentioning the classic chicken curry. This recipe features tender chicken in a flavorful curry sauce made with a variety of spices, tomatoes, and yogurt. The combination of the tender chicken and the aromatic curry sauce is sure to be a hit at your next beer can chicken cookout.
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Indian Dal Nirvana (Dal Makhani)
Main Ingredients: Dry Lentils, Crushed Tomato, Fresh Ginger, Minced
Dal makhani, also known as dal nirvana, is a popular Indian dish made with a variety of lentils and beans. This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a great side dish to pair with your beer can chicken. The creamy and flavorful sauce adds a delicious twist to the classic Indian lentil dish.
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Indian Curry Chicken
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken, Onion
This Indian curry chicken recipe is a great way to add some spice to your beer can chicken. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice before being cooked to perfection on the grill. The end result is a juicy and flavorful chicken that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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How to Make Kedgeree – an Anglo-Indian favourite
Main Ingredients: Smoked Haddock, Basmati Rice, Chicken Stock, Whole
Kedgeree is a dish that originated in India but became popular in the UK during the British colonial era. It is made with rice, smoked fish, eggs, and a variety of spices. This dish is a unique and delicious way to add some Indian flavors to your beer can chicken dinner. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover chicken from the previous night.
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Indian Coconut Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Fresh Grated Ginger
This Indian coconut lentil curry is a perfect side dish to pair with your beer can chicken. The combination of creamy coconut milk and hearty lentils makes for a delicious and satisfying dish. Plus, lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish a nutritious addition to your meal.
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North Indian Chicken Curry
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Onions, Plain Yogurt, Cornstarch, Ginger
This North Indian chicken curry is a great option for those who prefer a spicier dish. The chicken is cooked in a flavorful tomato-based curry sauce that is packed with heat from a variety of spices. The bold flavors of this dish complement the smoky flavors of the beer can chicken perfectly.
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Roti (Buttery Indian Flatbread)
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Salt, Melted Butter, Water, Butter
No Indian meal is complete without some delicious roti, a buttery and flaky Indian flatbread. This recipe is a great way to add some carbs to your beer can chicken dinner and soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken. Plus, making your own roti is easier than you think and will impress your guests.
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Indian Restaurant Madras Curry
Main Ingredients: Spice Mix, Madras Curry Powder, Chili Powder, Paprika
This Indian restaurant-style madras curry is a great option for those who want to recreate the flavors of their favorite Indian restaurant at home. The chicken is cooked in a spicy and flavorful sauce that is sure to wake up your taste buds. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Crispy Indian Okra
Main Ingredients: Baby Okra, Fat, Cumin Seeds, Onion, Serrano Pepper
Looking for a unique and tasty side dish to pair with your beer can chicken? Try this recipe for crispy Indian okra. The okra is coated in a blend of spices and breadcrumbs before being baked to crispy perfection in the oven. The crunchy texture and spicy flavors make for a delicious and unexpected addition to your meal.
This Indian fried cabbage recipe is a great way to add some veggies to your beer can chicken dinner. The cabbage is cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and topped with crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor. This dish is quick and easy to make, making it a perfect option for a weeknight meal.
Lamb is a popular protein in Indian cuisine and this lamb curry recipe is a great way to add some variety to your beer can chicken dinner. The tender chunks of lamb are cooked in a flavorful curry sauce that is sure to be a hit with your taste buds. Plus, the combination of lamb and chicken on the grill makes for a unique and delicious meal.
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Stovetop Naan bread( Indian Naan bread)
Main Ingredients: Dried Yeast, Water, Sugar, Yoghurt, Egg, Ghee, Flour
No Indian meal is complete without some delicious naan bread. This recipe for stovetop naan bread is a great way to add some carbs to your beer can chicken dinner. The bread is cooked in a pan on the stovetop, making it quick and easy to make. Plus, the buttery and flaky texture pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the chicken.
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Indian Dal Soup
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Cayenne
This Indian dal soup is a great way to add some comfort to your beer can chicken dinner. The creamy and flavorful soup is made with a blend of lentils and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying addition to your meal. Plus, the combination of the smoky chicken and the creamy soup is a match made in heaven.
Dahl, also known as dal, is a popular Indian dish made with lentils or legumes. This recipe for red lentil dahl is a great side dish to pair with your beer can chicken. The lentils are cooked in a flavorful and aromatic sauce made with a variety of spices and coconut milk. Serve it alongside your chicken for a hearty and delicious meal.
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Indian Lemon Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Green Chilies, Ginger, Peanuts, Turmeric, Salt
This Indian lemon rice is a great way to add some zesty flavors to your beer can chicken dinner. The rice is cooked with a blend of spices and lemon juice, creating a bright and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the chicken. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Masala Paste:
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To make the masala paste, you will need a combination of spices that are commonly found in Indian cooking. These include garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. You can either buy these spices pre-ground or grind them yourself for a fresher and more vibrant flavor.
Butter Chicken:
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For the main dish, you will need boneless chicken, plain yogurt, heavy cream, butter, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato puree, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves). These ingredients may seem like a lot, but trust me, the end result is worth the effort.
Method
Making the Masala Paste:
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To make the masala paste, start by heating a pan and dry roasting the spices until fragrant. Then, grind them into a fine powder and set aside. In the same pan, heat some oil and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden brown. Next, add the ground spices and tomato puree, and cook until the oil separates. Once done, let the mixture cool and blend it into a smooth paste.
Preparing the Butter Chicken:
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To make the butter chicken, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of the masala paste, yogurt, and some salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. Then, heat a pan and add some butter, followed by the marinated chicken. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred. In the same pan, add the remaining masala paste, heavy cream, and some water. Let it simmer for a few minutes before adding kasuri methi for that signature butter chicken flavor.
Final Thoughts
Serving Suggestions:
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Butter chicken is best served hot with some naan bread or steamed rice. You can also add a side of raita (yogurt sauce) and some papad (crispy lentil crackers) for a complete Indian meal experience.
In conclusion, butter chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves Indian cuisine. With its rich and creamy texture and bold flavors, it's no wonder why it's a crowd favorite. So why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your homemade version of this beloved Indian recipe? Happy cooking!