One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken - GAME CHANGER!

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making a delicious and effortless One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines rich flavors with minimal effort, allowing the chicken to absorb all the delicious spices while baking. No marination is necessary, making it a quick option that everyone will enjoy.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Ingredients Needed:

  • 1.2 kg (2.4 lb) bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed (drumsticks can be substituted)

• Action:

  • Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

• Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup plain full-fat yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp finely grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or crushed
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cooking or kosher salt

• Action:

  • In another bowl, combine all marinade ingredients.
  • Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade. While marinating overnight enhances flavor, it's not necessary since the baking process infuses the chicken with flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• Ingredients Needed:

  • 2 tbsp melted ghee or butter
  • 1 cup tomato passata (or tomato puree)
  • 1 cup heavy or thickened cream
  • 1 1/2 tsp white sugar
  • 3/4 tsp cooking or kosher salt

• Action:

  • In a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13”) baking pan, combine melted ghee or butter, tomato passata, cream, sugar, and salt. Mix well.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

• Action:
  • Place the marinated chicken in the sauce, ensuring it is covered. Scrape out any remaining marinade and slather it over the chicken.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) or 180°C (fan) for 45 minutes.
  • Baste the chicken at the 30-minute and 40-minute marks for even cooking and flavor.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

• Action:
  • After 45 minutes, check if the chicken is golden brown and the sauce has darkened.
  • If the sauce is too thin, remove the chicken and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to thicken.

Step 6: Serve

• Action:
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Serve the butter chicken over basmati rice, garnished with coriander leaves if desired.

Conclusion

You've successfully prepared a One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken that's flavorful and easy to make. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. For a twist, try using boneless chicken thighs or breasts, following the same cooking method. Enjoy your meal!