Prepare to be amazed by a mouthwatering Indian classic that breaks all the rules - our Butter Less Butter Chicken! This revolutionary recipe proves that you don't need loads of butter to create a rich, creamy, and absolutely delectable dish. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers and spice enthusiasts, this recipe delivers all the traditional flavors of butter chicken with a modern, lighter twist that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, tomato paste, minced garlic, minced ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together to create a smooth marinade.
- Add diced chicken breast to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. No additional oil is needed due to the yogurt marinade.
- Add chopped onions to the dry pan and sauté until they turn translucent and start to brown slightly, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan, including all the marinade. Spread the chicken pieces evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cook the chicken for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of water to maintain desired consistency.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Marination is Key: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it becomes. While 30 minutes works, aim for 2 hours if possible.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- No-Oil Cooking Hack: The yogurt marinade prevents sticking and adds moisture, eliminating the need for extra oil.
- Consistency Control: If the sauce gets too thick, add a little water to maintain a smooth, silky texture.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Always use fresh coriander leaves for garnishing to add a burst of freshness and color.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 285kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg