Butter Chicken Casserole is a fusion dish that marries the traditional Indian Butter Chicken with the convenience of a casserole. The result is a meal that's both exotic and comforting. The creamy tomato sauce, seasoned with garam masala, envelops tender chicken thighs, while a layer of melted mozzarella cheese adds a satisfying gooeyness.
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Butter Chicken Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Butter Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoon butter
- 6 chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 2-3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup full-fat cream
- 2 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 cup mozzarella shredded
- rice
- flatbread
- lime
- cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- Cut chicken into cubes. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan and cook ½ of the chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes or until brown but still raw in the middle. Repeat with another half of the chicken.6 chicken thighs, 6 tablespoon butter
- Do not wipe the pan after you cook the chicken and add 4 tablespoon of butter into it. Saute onions for 7 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Sprinkle masala on the pan and mix well until fragrant. Pour in cream and tomato, bring to a boil and adjust the flavor with salt and pepper. Retort chicken into the sauce and stir well.6 tablespoon butter, 2-3 garlic cloves, 1 onion, 1 cup full-fat cream, 2 tablespoon garam masala, 1 cup tomato sauce
- Transfer chicken pieces with the sauce into a baking pan, sprinkle cheese on top and bake for 25-30 minutes. Serve over rice.1 cup mozzarella, rice, flatbread, lime, cilantro
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 6 tablespoon butter
- 6 chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup full-fat cream
- 2 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
- rice, flatbread, lime, cilantro for serving
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
Cut chicken into cubes. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan and cook ½ of the chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes or until brown but still raw in the middle. Repeat with another half of the chicken.
Do not wipe the pan after you cook the chicken and add 4 tablespoon of butter into it. Saute onions for 7 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Sprinkle masala on the pan and mix well until fragrant. Pour in cream and tomato, bring to a boil and adjust the flavor with salt and pepper. Retort chicken into the sauce and stir well.
Transfer chicken pieces with the sauce into a baking pan, sprinkle cheese on top and bake for 25-30 minutes. Serve over rice.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Butter Chicken Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal:
Rice: Steamed basmati rice is a classic choice that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
Flatbread: Naan or roti can be used to scoop up the delicious sauce, adding another layer of texture.
Lime and Cilantro: A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can brighten up the dish, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
These sides not only complement the casserole but also enhance the overall dining experience, making it a well-rounded meal.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Creating the perfect Butter Chicken Casserole involves a few tricks that can elevate your dish from good to great:
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground garam masala will offer a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground spices.
Don't Skip the Sauté: Properly sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor base for the sauce.
Quality Cheese: Using high-quality mozzarella cheese will ensure a gooey, satisfying crust on top of your casserole.
By following these expert tips, you can ensure that your Butter Chicken Casserole is as delicious and flavorful as possible.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but be aware that thighs tend to remain juicier and more flavorful after cooking. If you opt for chicken breast, consider marinating it beforehand to retain moisture.
Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and the cream with coconut cream. The cheese can be replaced with a dairy-free alternative. These substitutions will slightly alter the flavor but still result in a delicious dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Can I freeze Butter Chicken Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish without baking, allow it to cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as instructed.
What variations can I try for this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition and flavour. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the different ingredients.
What’s the best way to season the dish?
While garam masala is essential, consider adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Adding chili powder for heat, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes can enhance the dish’s complexity. Taste as you go to create your ideal flavor profile.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved this Butter Chicken Casserole, why not explore more casserole recipes? Here are a few of my favorites, perfect for busy parents and foodies looking for delicious, easy-to-make meals that can feed a crowd:
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