Authentic Butter Chicken with Fragrant Basmati Rice

Ingredients

• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Basmati rice (2 cups)
• Sugar (1 teaspoon)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Tomato puree (1 cup)
• Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Red chili powder (1 teaspoon)
• Coriander powder (1 teaspoon)
• Cumin powder (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Garam masala (1 teaspoon)
• Garlic paste (1 tablespoon)
• Ginger paste (1 tablespoon)
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
• Yogurt (1/2 cup)
• Chicken thighs (8, boneless and skinless)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well-coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
4. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and sugar. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for 5-10 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well-coated and flavorful.
7. While the chicken is simmering, cook the basmati rice according to the package instructions. Fluff with a fork once cooked.
8. Serve the butter chicken over the basmati rice and garnish with the fresh, chopped cilantro. Enjoy this authentic taste of India!