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

Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich flavors, and crispy fries. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even weeknight meals, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy garlic sauce elevates the dish, making it a standout choice for anyone craving comfort food with an Indian twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice or with hand-cut fries for a delightful meal suited to any preference.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the savory taste of the butter chicken paired with crispy fries.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you achieve the best results while cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Potato peeler
• Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife ensures precise cuts for even cooking and better presentation.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and preparing large quantities of sauce without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken, allowing flavors to meld beautifully 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 Hand-Cut Fries:

(Fries ingredients can be added here as needed.)

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. Combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, garam masala, turmeric, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Once melted, add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Stir in chili powder followed by tomato puree. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream and Seasoning

Once your sauce has thickened slightly, lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Let it simmer gently until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return cooked chicken to the skillet with sauce. Stir well to ensure all pieces are coated. Allow it to simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes so that flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Prepare Hand-Cut Fries (Optional)

While your butter chicken simmers, you can prepare hand-cut fries by peeling potatoes, cutting them into desired shapes, soaking in water briefly to remove excess starch, then frying until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce alongside crispy hand-cut fries!

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 that combines rich flavors with satisfying textures. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish:

Pairing Suggestions

• Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the butter chicken.
• Naan Bread: Soft, warm naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, adding an authentic touch to your meal.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs complements the spices in the butter chicken and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add a healthy crunch and make your plate visually appealing.
• Yogurt Dip: A cooling yogurt dip, seasoned with mint or cucumber, can provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.

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

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least an hour. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs elevate the dish’s taste. Avoid dried versions when possible.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust chili powder according to your heat preference. Start low if you’re unsure and increase gradually.
• Simmer Slowly: Letting the sauce simmer on low heat helps meld flavors together beautifully without overcooking the chicken.

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

Pairing side dishes with your creamy butter chicken enhances the meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side that helps balance spice levels while adding freshness.
2. Aloo Gobi: A flavorful mix of potatoes and cauliflower spiced with turmeric and cumin makes a perfect vegetarian complement.
3. Mint Chutney: A vibrant green chutney adds a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with creamy dishes.
4. Steamed Basmati Rice: The fragrant aroma of basmati rice provides a fluffy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds crunch and nutrition while contrasting nicely against rich flavors.
6. Chickpea Salad: A hearty salad made from chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs offers protein along with refreshing textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping marination – Marinating the chicken adds flavor and tenderness. Always allow enough time for marination.
• Using low-quality tomatoes – Poor quality can affect the sauce’s taste. Choose fresh or high-quality canned tomato puree for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken – This can lead to dry meat. Cook until just done to maintain juiciness.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Tasting as you cook is crucial. Adjust salt and spices to your preference for a personalized flavor.
• Not letting the sauce thicken – A thick sauce enhances texture. Allow it to simmer adequately for perfect creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium, stirring occasionally until hot, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey thighs or breast work well as a substitute in this recipe.

What sides pair well with Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries?

Rice, naan, or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more chili powder or fresh chilies during cooking for an extra kick.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives in the sauce?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce and Hand-Cut Fries is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences—experiment with different proteins or spice levels to make it uniquely yours!