Butter Chicken Dhaba style

Dhaba-style Butter Chicken is a rich and flavorful Indian dish that is often associated with the roadside eateries or "dhabas" in India. It features tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato-based gravy with aromatic spices.

Ingredients: For the marinade:

• 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For the gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons Kashmiri red chili powder (for a vibrant color without excessive heat)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Chopped coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients - yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until the chicken is well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for better flavors.
3. Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the Kashmiri red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook the spices for a minute to release their flavors.
6. Add the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil starts to separate from the gravy.
7. Add the marinated chicken pieces along with the marinade to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the gravy.
8. Cover the pan and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
11. Serve the Dhaba-style Butter Chicken hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

The Dhaba-style Butter Chicken is known for its rich and creamy texture and the blend of aromatic spices. Enjoy the indulgent flavors of this classic Indian dish!