Name: Butter Chicken (Take Away Style)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 100 g Tit-illating Tandoori Paste (https://pepperandme.co.nz/products/titillating-tandoori?recipe_id=1545349); 4 large Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 300 g tomato passata; 1 tbsp Ding Dong Sauce (https://pepperandme.co.nz/products/wing-a-ling-a-ding-ding?recipe_id=1545349); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste; 1 cup cream; 2 tsp sugar; 2 onions, very finely diced or blended; 2 tbsp Butter or ghee; 1 tsp Whatevz Mum (https://pepperandme.co.nz/products/whatevz-mum-fine-salt?recipe_id=1545349)

Introduction to Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Why Butter Chicken is a Favorite?

If you're like most food enthusiasts, you know that butter chicken is more than just a meal; it's an experience! Originating from North India, this dish has made its way into the hearts and homes of countless families, especially here in Australia and New Zealand. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken are truly comforting, making it a go-to for a cozy night in or a flavorful work-from-home lunch.

One of the reasons butter chicken take away style has garnered such popularity is its perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness from the sugar, the warmth from spices, and the creamy texture create a medley that tantalizes your taste buds. According to The New York Times food section, parents, particularly young professionals, appreciate meals that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It's no wonder this dish has become a weekly staple!

Imagine the aroma of simmering spices filling your kitchen, as you whip up this dish that's reminiscent of your favorite Indian takeaway, all without needing to leave your home. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly flavorful recipe! Ready to dive into the detailed recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Creating the perfect butter chicken take away style at home is easier than you might think! Here's what you’ll need to bring that delightful, authentic flavor right to your dinner table.

List of Ingredients Needed

100g Tit-illating Tandoori Paste
4 large chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
300g tomato passata
1 tablespoon Ding Dong Sauce
2 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative)
2 teaspoon sugar
2 onions, very finely diced or blended (for a smooth sauce)
2 tablespoon butter or ghee
1 teaspoon Whatevz Mum

These ingredients combine beautifully to create a rich and creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. You might be surprised at how a bit of sugar and chili can elevate the dish, making it reminiscent of your favorite takeaway. So, gather your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Preparing Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Creating your own butter chicken take away style dish at home is more rewarding than you might think! For those busy weeknights or satisfying weekend dinners, this flavorful recipe will transport your taste buds straight to your favorite Indian restaurant. Let’s dive into the preparation steps to achieve that perfect balance of spices and creaminess.

Marinate the Chicken

The magic of butter chicken starts with marinating the chicken thighs. Use about 100g of Tit-illating Tandoori Paste to coat four large, boneless, and skinless chicken thighs. For the best results, let the chicken soak up those spices overnight, but if you're short on time, a few hours will still make a big impact. This step is crucial—it infuses your chicken with that beloved rich flavor.

Cook the Onions to Perfection

Next, it’s time to work on the foundation of our sauce: the onions. Finely dice two onions or blend them if you want an ultra-smooth sauce that kids will love! In a pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the onions and cook them until they turn translucent and soft. This may take about 5-7 minutes. Properly cooked onions lend a sweetness and depth that complements the spices wonderfully.

Sear the Marinated Chicken

Once your onions are perfectly cooked, it’s time to crank up the heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the pan and sear them quickly for about 30 seconds on each side. This not only helps to seal in flavor but also gives the chicken a lovely golden color. You’re going to love the aroma that wafts through your kitchen at this point!

Create the Sauce with Tomatoes

With the chicken seared, it’s time to turn down the heat to medium and introduce the necessary tomato elements. Add 300g of tomato passata, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 2 teaspoons of sugar to the pan. The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, and trust me, it’s a secret ingredient that makes all the difference! Add some deliciously smoky Ding Dong Sauce for that little extra kick, and sprinkle in a few grinds of Whatevz Mum or your favorite seasoning.

Simmer and Stir in the Cream

Now comes the best part—simmering the dish to perfection. Allow the tomato-chicken mixture to gently bubble for about 15 minutes. This lets all those flavors meld beautifully. Finally, stir in a cup of cream, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. This will create that luscious, silky texture we associate with butter chicken take away style.

Serve your masterpiece alongside fluffy rice or warm naan, and garnish with fresh coriander if desired. Your homemade butter chicken is now ready to serve, and trust me, it will become a favorite in no time!

Variations on Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Butter Chicken with Added Veggies

For a nutrition boost, consider incorporating some colorful veggies into your butter chicken take away style. Spinach, bell peppers, or diced carrots not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also add important vitamins. Simply sauté the veggies alongside the onions for a seamless blend of flavors. This approach is perfect for sneaking in extra nutrients for those picky eaters in your home!

Butter Chicken Made Dairy-Free

If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, swap traditional cream for coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk. These alternatives provide that luscious creaminess while keeping your dish light and vegan-friendly. Check out this handy guide on dairy-free cooking tips for more insights.

Experimenting with your butter chicken helps you cater to different tastes while still enjoying that beloved takeaway flavor. What variations will you explore?

Cooking tips for Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Key tips for flavor balance

When whipping up your butter chicken take away style, remember that balance is key! Start by focusing on your spices and seasonings; a well-measured tablespoon of sugar not only rounds out the flavors but also enhances the richness of the sauce.

Onion Texture: Finely diced or blended onions create a smooth sauce, making it more kid-friendly while intensifying the flavor.
Chili Heat: Don't shy away from the added chili; it gives depth to the dish. Adjust according to your spice tolerance, but a little heat can do wonders.
Cream and Sugar Combo: The cream's richness works beautifully with the sugar, giving you that luxurious takeaway feel.

These small tweaks can elevate your dish to a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

Serving suggestions for Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Perfect pairings with sides

To elevate your butter chicken take away style experience, consider some delicious side dishes that bring out the vibrant flavors. Here are a few ideas:

Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, basmati rice is a classic choice that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of your butter chicken—try garlic naan or a classic plain version.
Raita: A cooling yogurt sauce with cucumber and mint can balance the spiciness and add a refreshing touch.
Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon offers a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

Mix and match these sides to create your own take-away feast right at home! For more options, check out this quick salad recipe to round out your meal.

Time details for Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Preparation time

Getting your ingredients ready for this delicious butter chicken take away style dish will take about 15 minutes. Whether you’re finely dicing onions or marinating your chicken, a little prep goes a long way in enhancing the flavors.

Cooking time

Once everything is prepped, the cooking process will take around 30 minutes. You’ll love how quickly this comes together, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.

Total time

In just under 45 minutes, you’ll have a rich and creamy butter chicken ready to delight your taste buds. It’s a fantastic option when you're looking for something hearty yet simple—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!

If you're eager to dive into this wonderful recipe, make sure to check out Pepper & Me for those essential ingredients!

Nutritional Information for Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Calories

A serving of our butter chicken take away style packs approximately 450 calories. This hearty meal is perfect for satisfying your hunger without sacrificing flavor.

Protein

Each serving contains about 30 grams of protein, thanks to the tender chicken thighs. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Fat

With around 25 grams of fat, primarily from the cream and butter or ghee, our butter chicken take away style is rich and indulgent. For a lighter option, consider using coconut cream or reducing the butter.

Enjoy this beloved dish knowing you're indulging responsibly!

FAQs about Butter Chicken Take Away Style

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! This butter chicken take away style dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed. This allows the flavors to meld even more, giving you an even tastier meal!

What should I serve with butter chicken?

For a classic experience, serve your butter chicken take away style with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. You can also prepare a side of simple cucumber raita for a cooling contrast. Additionally, steamed veggies or a fresh salad can enhance your meal and add a nutritious touch.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer less heat in your butter chicken take away style, start by reducing the amount of tandoori paste or omit any additional chili you might consider adding. You can also balance the heat with extra cream or a spoonful of yogurt, which offers a nice creaminess and helps mellow the spices. Remember, you can always add more spice later if you want to amp up the flavor!

Conclusion on Butter Chicken Take Away Style

In conclusion, this butter chicken take away style recipe transforms a beloved favorite into a home-cooked delight that even the busiest individuals can whip up. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress friends and family. Enjoy this dish paired with rice for a comforting experience!