Crispy Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe for a Flavorful and Crunchy Delight

Introduction

If you love butter chicken but crave a crispy texture, this Crispy Butter Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the rich, creamy flavors of traditional butter chicken with the crunchy texture of crispy fried chicken, this dish is the best of both worlds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe guarantees restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

This guide will cover everything you need to know, from ingredients and preparation to expert cooking tips that ensure your chicken stays crispy while being coated in the most luxurious butter sauce. So, let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love This Crispy Butter Chicken Recipe

• Crunchy & Juicy – A perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.
• Rich & Creamy Sauce – The butter-infused tomato-based sauce enhances every bite.
• Easy to Follow – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping.

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Fried Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Oil for frying

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

this PIN FOR LATER

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, paprika, garam masala, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).

2. Coat and Fry the Chicken

1. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off.
4. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly for an even coating.
5. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

3. Prepare the Butter Chicken Sauce

1. In a pan, melt butter and oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden.
3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt; stir well.
5. Pour in tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream, yogurt, and honey. Cook for another 5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Dish

1. Add the crispy fried chicken into the sauce and toss gently.
2. Simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan.

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Tips for the Best Crispy Butter Chicken

• Use buttermilk for marination – It tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
• Cornstarch makes it extra crispy – Helps create that crunchy crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan – Fry in batches to maintain crispiness.
• Use fresh spices – This enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Let the fried chicken rest – Allowing it to sit for 2 minutes after frying keeps it crispy when adding to the sauce.

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Variations & Customizations

1. Spicy Version

• Add extra chili powder or cayenne to both the chicken and sauce for a fiery kick.

2. Baked Option

• Instead of frying, coat the chicken and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

3. Dairy-Free Alternative

• Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free yogurt.

4. Gluten-Free Version

• Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour mix.

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What to Serve with Crispy Butter Chicken

• Steamed Basmati Rice – Classic pairing for butter chicken.
• Garlic Naan or Roti – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Grilled Vegetables – A healthy and colorful side dish.
• Mango Lassi – A refreshing Indian yogurt drink to balance the spices.

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Storage & Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the sauce and chicken separately for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Reheat the sauce in a pan over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to refresh it.
• Reheat chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well but require a longer frying time.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Fry the chicken fresh for the best texture.

3. How do I make it extra crispy?

Double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the buttermilk and flour mixture twice.

4. Can I use an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

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Conclusion

This Crispy Butter Chicken recipe is the perfect fusion of crunchy fried chicken and rich, velvety butter sauce. Whether you’re a fan of traditional butter chicken or looking for a new way to enjoy it, this dish will satisfy all your cravings.

Try this recipe today, and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking! 🍛🔥

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