It is a type of curry made from chicken with a spiced tomato and butter (makhan) sauce. Its sauce is known for its rich texture. It is similar to chicken tikka masala, which uses a tomato paste.

Butter Chicken

Ingredients:

3 cups cubed chicken breasts or thighs

1-cup full fat Greek yogurt

Juice of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoon garam masala

1-teaspoon paprika

1-teaspoon cayenne pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

1-teaspoon ginger

1-tablespoon cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil

¼ cup unsalted butter

6 cloves garlic

1 cup chopped onions

3 cups chopped tomatoes

¼ cup chicken stock

1-cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon above spice mixture

1-cup cashews

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Cube chicken.  Add spices, lemon juice and lemon zest.  Add Greek yogurt.  Mix thoroughly.  Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Sauce:

Caramelize garlic and onions.  Deglaze with the tomatoes and cashews.  Cook for 30 minutes.  Add the heavy cream and chicken stock.  Place in blender of food processor until creamy and smooth.  Set aside.

For the chicken:

Broil, bake or sauté chicken until done.  Place in a pan and cover with the sauce.  Cook for an additional 20 minutes.  Adjust seasonings, and serve over rice

Enjoy!

Chef Chuck Kerber