Here’s a delicious recipe for crispy butter chicken that’s sure to be a hit! This version combines the classic flavors of butter chicken with a crispy texture.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste (or minced ginger and garlic)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
2. Prepare the Crispy Coating:
- Set up a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Dredge each marinated chicken piece in flour, dip it in the egg, and then coat it in breadcrumbs. Set aside.
3. Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Butter Sauce:
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger-garlic paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Combine:
- Add the crispy chicken pieces to the butter sauce, gently stirring to coat.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Enjoy your crispy butter chicken!