Butter chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that is loved worldwide. Adding vegetables to this classic recipe makes it even more nutritious and delicious. In this post, we will guide you through a step-by-step process to prepare butter chicken with vegetables.
Why Add Vegetables to Butter Chicken?
Including vegetables in butter chicken has several benefits:
- Nutritional Boost: Vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your meal.
- Enhanced Flavor: They bring natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Better Texture: Vegetables provide a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
- Balanced Meal: Makes the dish more wholesome and filling.
Ingredients
Here is a list of ingredients you will need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into cubes)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, diced)
- 1/2 cup carrots (chopped)
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1/2 cup cauliflower (cut into small florets)
- 1/2 cup mushrooms (sliced)
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust as needed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Add chicken cubes to the mixture and coat well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for better flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon butter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add bell peppers, carrots, peas, cauliflower, and mushrooms.
- Stir-fry for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Prepare the Butter Chicken Sauce
- Add another 1 tablespoon butter to the pan.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add pureed tomatoes, cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, and garam masala.
- Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add honey/sugar and salt.
- Pour in 1/2 cup water and mix well.
5. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the sauce.
- Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and mix until the sauce is creamy.
- Sprinkle kasuri methi and stir for final flavor enhancement.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Nutritional Information
Below is a table showing an approximate breakdown of nutrients per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Tips for the Best Butter Chicken with Vegetables
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken enhance the taste.
- Marinate Longer: If possible, marinate overnight for the best flavors.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less chili powder based on your spice preference.
- Blend the Sauce: For an extra smooth texture, blend the sauce before adding the chicken and vegetables.
- Use Ghee Instead of Butter: It gives a richer flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Different Vegetables: Add zucchini, broccoli, or potatoes for variety.
- Low-Calorie Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
FAQs
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead. Simply reheat and add vegetables before serving.
2. Can I Freeze Butter Chicken with Vegetables?
Yes, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
3. What Can I Serve with This Dish?
- Basmati rice
- Garlic naan
- Jeera rice
- Plain roti
Conclusion
Butter chicken with vegetables is a delicious, creamy, and nutritious dish that is easy to make at home. By following this recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with a homemade touch. Try it today and let us know how it turned out!