If you're looking to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that bursts with flavor and warmth, look no further than Cashew Butter Chicken Masala! This creamy, aromatic Indian classic combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious cashew butter sauce, creating a meal that's not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet experience at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 cup cashew butter
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes, finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and grating the fresh ginger.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt and curry powder. Cook the chicken until it's lightly browned on all sides and mostly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the cashew butter, mixing it thoroughly with the chicken and aromatics.
- Pour in the coconut milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Ensure the cashew butter is fully incorporated.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to cook completely. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or curry powder as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Best served hot with steamed rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions, garlic, and ginger in advance. You can even marinate the chicken in salt and curry powder for an hour before cooking to enhance the flavors.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a significant difference in flavor. If possible, opt for freshly grated ginger instead of powdered for a more vibrant taste.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less curry powder and add more gradually to taste. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance out the spices.
- Perfectly Creamy Sauce: To achieve the smoothest sauce, make sure to stir the cashew butter thoroughly with the chicken before adding the coconut milk. This ensures a creamy texture without lumps.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor. Don’t skip this step for that restaurant-quality finish!
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. Consider serving it with a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing contrast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 110mg
