Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of India! This irresistible Butter Chicken recipe combines tender, succulent chicken bathed in a luxurious, creamy sauce, perfectly complemented by fresh sautéed spinach and warm, toasted naan bread. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food enthusiast, this dish promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning palates with its rich, complex flavors and stunning presentation.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup butter chicken sauce
- 2 cups spinach
- 4 pieces naan
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare marinade by mixing chicken cubes with 1/2 cup butter chicken sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through with internal temperature reaching 165°F.
- Pour remaining butter chicken sauce into the skillet with chicken, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken and coat chicken evenly.
- In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil and quickly sauté spinach leaves for 2-3 minutes until they are wilted but still bright green. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Warm naan bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for 2-3 minutes or briefly toast in a dry skillet until slightly crisp and warm.
- Plate the dish by placing sautéed spinach as a base, topping with butter chicken, and serving warm naan bread on the side.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Allow chicken to marinate for the full 15-20 minutes to ensure maximum flavor absorption and tenderness.
- Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Sauce Consistency: Simmer the sauce on low heat to achieve a thick, clingy texture that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Spinach Technique: Sauté spinach quickly to maintain its bright green color and prevent overcooking.
- Naan Warming: For extra flavor, brush naan with a little olive oil or ghee before warming for a crispy, golden finish.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of garam masala can elevate the dish's visual and flavor profile.
- Serving Tip: Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
