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Pumpkin Butter Chicken: A Delicious Fall Twist on a Classic Recipe

Pumpkin Butter Chicken: A Delicious Fall Twist on a Classic Recipe

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5.3 from 20 reviews

Pumpkin Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, spiced pumpkin butter sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for the fall season.

Ingredients

Marinated Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (equal parts grated ginger and minced garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Pumpkin Butter Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Other:

  • Cooked basmati rice, for serving
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Naan bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Add the chicken, coat thoroughly, and refrigerate.
  2. Prepare the Pumpkin Butter Sauce: Sauté onion, garlic, ginger. Add pumpkin, tomatoes, cream, broth, butter, sugar, spices. Simmer.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Pan-fry, bake, or grill the marinated chicken until cooked through.
  4. Combine and Serve: Add cooked chicken to the sauce, simmer. Serve over rice, garnish with cilantro, and enjoy with naan.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken is crucial for tenderness and flavor.
  • Use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
  • Adjust the spice level to your preference.
  • Simmer the sauce for the recommended time to develop flavors.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
  • This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

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