Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

The Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine to your table. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in, this recipe shines with its creamy sauce and tender chicken. The hand-cut fries add a wonderful crunch, making it an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The blend of spices creates a mouthwatering experience that excites the palate.
• Creamy Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the dish, providing richness and depth.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect Pairing: Hand-cut fries complement the buttery chicken perfectly, adding texture and satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this delicious dish requires some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A good chef’s knife allows for precise cutting of chicken and vegetables, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Large skillet or frying pan: This tool is essential for searing the chicken and simmering the sauce evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken, allowing it to absorb flavors before cooking.

Ingredients

For the Butter Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For the Fries:

(Add your choice of potatoes here)

How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, garam masala, turmeric, smoked paprika, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix well until they are fully coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add marinated chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sauté chopped onions until translucent (about 4-5 minutes). Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in chili powder followed by tomato puree. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in heavy cream and stir well to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Let simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare Hand-Cut Fries

(Insert instructions here depending on how you wish to prepare your fries—baked or fried.)

Step 6: Serve

Garnish your creamy butter chicken with fresh cilantro and serve alongside hand-cut fries for a complete meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

Serving Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries is a delightful experience. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, while the hand-cut fries add a satisfying crunch. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Naan Bread

• Naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to every bite.

Serve with Rice

• A bed of fluffy basmati rice can soak up the rich sauce, making it a hearty combination that is both filling and comforting.

Top with Fresh Cilantro

• Garnishing your dish with fresh cilantro adds color and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the spices in the butter chicken.

Add a Side Salad

• A light salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing can balance the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

Perfecting this dish comes down to attention to detail and using high-quality ingredients. Follow these tips for an irresistible meal.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderness.

• Sauté Onions Properly: Cook onions until golden brown before adding garlic and ginger. This builds a deeper flavor base for your sauce.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and ginger instead of dried versions. Fresh ingredients bring more vibrant flavors to your dish.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go! Adjust chili powder according to your heat preference, ensuring it suits your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

When enjoying Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries, consider these complementary side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side that balances the spices in your butter chicken perfectly.

2. Steamed Vegetables: Brightly colored steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots add nutrition without overpowering flavors.

3. Spiced Lentils: Lentils cooked with cumin and coriander offer extra protein and fiber, making your meal even more satisfying.

4. Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad mixed with diced vegetables is both nutritious and flavorful.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn provides a delightful charred flavor that pairs nicely with creamy sauces.

6. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower offers a wonderful texture contrast while complementing the main dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Incorrect Chicken Cuts: Using chicken breast instead of thighs can lead to dry meat. Stick with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier dish.
• Overcooking the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can cause it to lose its creamy texture. Simmer gently and keep an eye on it!
• Skipping Marinade Time: Not marinating the chicken will reduce flavor depth. Allow at least 30 minutes for the yogurt and spices to do their magic.
• Neglecting Seasoning Balance: Under-seasoning can dull flavors. Taste as you go and adjust the salt and spices accordingly.
• Inconsistent Fry Sizes: Cutting fries unevenly leads to inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform thickness for perfectly crispy fries.
• Rushing Cooking Times: Cooking at too high a heat can burn ingredients. Use medium heat and take your time for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover creamy butter chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs provide more moisture and flavor. If you prefer using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or a mixture of milk with cornstarch as a thickener for a lighter version of the sauce.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spiciness mainly comes from chili powder. You can adjust it according to your taste by adding less or substituting it with mild paprika.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.

How should I serve this dish?

Serve it hot with hand-cut fries or over rice for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or trying different proteins. Make sure to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!