Description
This creamy butternut squash butter chicken features tender chicken in a luscious, spiced sauce, delivering a perfect blend of warmth and sweetness to every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds (675 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite‑sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup butternut squash puree (store‑bought or homemade)
- 1 cup full‑fat coconut milk
- ½ cup tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the ginger and garlic, cooking for an additional 1‑2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides, around 8‑10 minutes.
- Stir in the garam masala, turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1‑2 minutes until the spices are well‑coated on the chicken.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and tomato puree. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, and the sauce has thickened.
- In the final few minutes of cooking, stir in the butter to create a creamy texture.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
- Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Notes
- Butternut squash puree adds an extra layer of sweetness and nutrition to the classic butter chicken sauce.
- This dish is a great make‑ahead meal, as the flavors develop even more when reheated.
- Coconut milk can be substituted with heavy cream for a richer taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving can enhance the dish’s flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600
