Marrie You need 3 min read Post on Feb 04, 2025
Table of Contents
Chinese Butter Chicken Recipe: A Flavor Fusion Delight
Craving a rich, creamy, and subtly spicy chicken dish? Look no further than this delicious fusion recipe that marries the comforting flavors of butter chicken with the aromatic spices of Chinese cuisine. This Chinese butter chicken recipe offers a unique twist on a classic, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Adjust quantities as needed.
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients with the chicken. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-3 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the bell peppers and cook until slightly tender, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream, soy sauce, honey/brown sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, and red chili flakes. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.
5. Combine and Finish:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat it thoroughly in the sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
6. Serve:
Serve the Chinese butter chicken hot over cooked rice. Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic dish!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the spiciness to your preference.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or mushrooms.
- Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or paneer for a different twist.
- Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions also make great garnishes.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe cleverly balances the richness of butter chicken with the savory depth of Chinese flavors. The five-spice powder adds a unique warmth, while the soy sauce and honey provide a balance of sweet and salty notes. The combination of bell peppers adds a vibrant color and fresh crunch to complement the creamy sauce.
This Chinese butter chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Try it out and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family who love delicious and easy-to-make meals.
Thanks for visiting this site! We hope you enjoyed this article.