Indian Butter Chicken Casserole Recipe with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Are you ready to indulge in a dish that encapsulates the rich flavors of Indian cuisine? The Indian Butter Chicken Casserole with Creamy Tomato Sauce is an enchanting and comforting meal that brings together tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a luscious sauce. This casserole is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s an experience of culinary delight that you can easily recreate at home. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the magic of this Indian classic!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• Salt to taste

For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For Assembly:

• 2 cups cooked basmati rice or naan for serving
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or bell peppers for added color and nutrition

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garlic, ginger, and salt. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

Making the Creamy Tomato Sauce

3. Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, garam masala, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Incorporate the Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy.

Assembling the Casserole

6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread the marinated chicken in an even layer. Pour the creamy tomato sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is fully covered. If desired, sprinkle in the frozen peas or bell peppers for added color.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to become golden and bubbly.

Serving

8. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Pair your Indian Butter Chicken Casserole with basmati rice or warm naan for an authentic dining experience.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Chicken: Opt for chicken thighs for juiciness, but if you prefer, chicken breast can also be used.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Yogurt Substitute: For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt, which will add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Pairing Suggestions

This Indian Butter Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice, garlic naan, or even a refreshing cucumber raita to balance the spices. For a beverage, try serving it with a chilled mango lassi or a crisp Indian lager.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of Indian cuisine. Don’t hesitate to explore variations by incorporating seasonal vegetables or swapping proteins to suit your preferences.

For more culinary inspiration and delicious recipes, consider checking out other resources on Indian cooking or subscribe to a food newsletter that delivers mouthwatering recipes straight to your inbox! Dive into the world of flavors and get creative in your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!