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Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 119 reviews
  • Author: Matteo
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Creamy Butternut Squash Butter Chicken is a rich and flavorful twist on traditional butter chicken, featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a luscious sauce made with butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and aromatic Indian spices. Perfectly paired with basmati rice or naan, this dish offers a comforting and healthy alternative with a creamy texture and vibrant taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Spices

  • 1 1/2 pounds (675g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce and Aromatics

  • 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
  • 1/2 cup tomato puree
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and cook onions: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the ginger and garlic, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Brown the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides, around 8-10 minutes.
  4. Season the chicken: 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.
  5. Add liquids and butternut squash puree: Reduce the heat to low, then add the butternut squash puree, coconut milk, and tomato puree. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  6. Simmer the curry: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, and the sauce has thickened.
  7. Finish with butter: In the final few minutes of cooking, stir in the butter to create a creamy texture.
  8. Adjust seasoning and garnish: Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
  9. Serve: Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Notes

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.
  • Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if preferred, but thighs provide more flavor and tenderness.
  • Butternut squash puree can be homemade by roasting and blending butternut squash or store-bought for convenience.
  • Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit butter or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Serve with warm naan or fragrant basmati rice to complete the meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired

Keywords: butternut squash butter chicken, creamy butter chicken, Indian butter chicken recipe, healthy butter chicken, chicken curry with squash, gluten free butter chicken

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Find it online: https://todayplates.com/creamy-butternut-squash-butter-chicken-recipe/