Barbecued Butter Chicken: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Favorite

Butter chicken, that creamy, tomato-based Indian delight, is a global phenomenon. But what happens when you introduce it to the smoky kiss of a barbecue? Prepare for a flavor explosion! This recipe takes the beloved butter chicken and elevates it with a charred, smoky depth that will leave you craving more. This barbecued butter chicken recipe combines traditional flavors with a modern cooking technique, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a restaurant-quality meal at home.

## Why Barbecue Butter Chicken?

You might be thinking, “Butter chicken is perfect as it is!” And you’re not wrong. But barbecuing the chicken adds a layer of complexity that you won’t find in the traditional stovetop or oven methods. Here’s why it works:

* **Smoky Flavor:** The barbecue imparts a distinct smoky flavor to the chicken, which complements the rich, creamy sauce beautifully. This smoky note cuts through the richness, preventing it from being overly heavy.
* **Charred Goodness:** The slight char on the chicken adds a textural contrast and another layer of flavor. Those crispy bits are irresistible!
* **Presentation:** Let’s be honest, barbecued food just looks impressive. Serving barbecued butter chicken is a guaranteed conversation starter.
* **Perfect for Gatherings:** Barbecuing is a social activity. This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings, allowing you to cook and entertain simultaneously.

## The Ultimate Barbecued Butter Chicken Recipe

This recipe is broken down into two main parts: marinating and barbecuing the chicken, and preparing the butter chicken sauce. While it may seem like a lot of steps, each one is crucial for achieving the best possible flavor. This detailed guide provides foolproof steps for even beginner barbecuers.

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 4 hours (including marinating)
**Cook time:** 45 minutes

### Ingredients

**For the Chicken Marinade:**

* 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 cup plain yogurt, full-fat (Greek yogurt works too, but thin it with a little milk)
* 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste (equal parts ginger and garlic, minced and blended)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon garam masala
* 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
* 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

**For the Butter Chicken Sauce:**

* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 large onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup cashew paste (optional, for extra richness)
* 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
* 1 teaspoon garam masala
* 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1/2 teaspoon sugar
* Salt to taste
* Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

### Equipment

* Large mixing bowl
* Grill or barbecue
* Grill basket or skewers (if using chicken breast or want to keep the pieces together)
* Large saucepan or Dutch oven
* Tongs
* Measuring cups and spoons

### Instructions

**Part 1: Marinating the Chicken**

1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and maximum surface area for the marinade.
2. **Combine the Marinade Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. **Marinate the Chicken:** Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and ensure they are fully coated. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken to help it penetrate the meat. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful chicken.
4. **Refrigerate:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. Aim for at least 4 hours, and ideally, let it sit overnight.

**Part 2: Barbecuing the Chicken**

1. **Prepare the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-450°F or 190-230°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed. Clean the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. **Thread or Place Chicken on Grill:** If using skewers, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Alternatively, place the chicken directly on the grill grates or in a grill basket. A grill basket is recommended for smaller pieces or if you are concerned about the chicken falling through the grates. It also makes cleanup easier.
3. **Barbecue the Chicken:** Grill the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and slightly charred. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness. Watch carefully to prevent burning. The yogurt in the marinade can cause the chicken to brown quickly.
4. **Rest the Chicken:** Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before adding it to the sauce. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken.

**Part 3: Preparing the Butter Chicken Sauce**

1. **Sauté Aromatics:** In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Simmer:** Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. **Blend the Sauce (Optional):** For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the sauce to a regular blender, but be careful when blending hot liquids. Vent the blender lid to prevent pressure buildup.
4. **Add Cream and Seasoning:** Stir in the heavy cream and cashew paste (if using). Add the crushed kasuri methi, garam masala, red chili powder, and sugar. Season with salt to taste. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
5. **Combine Chicken and Sauce:** Add the barbecued chicken to the sauce and stir gently to coat. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
6. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot with naan bread, rice, or roti.

### Tips for the Best Barbecued Butter Chicken

* **Don’t Skip the Marinating:** The marinade is key to tender and flavorful chicken. The longer you marinate, the better. Overnight marination is highly recommended.
* **Control the Heat:** Pay close attention to the grill temperature to prevent burning the chicken. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a good char without drying out the meat. Adjust the heat as needed.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Adjust the Spices:** This recipe is a guide, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red chili powder or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder.
* **Use Full-Fat Yogurt:** Full-fat yogurt will create a richer and more tender marinade. Greek yogurt can be used, but thin it with a little milk or water to achieve the desired consistency.
* **Charcoal vs. Gas Grill:** While a gas grill is more convenient, a charcoal grill will impart a more authentic smoky flavor. If using a charcoal grill, experiment with different types of wood chips for added flavor.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian version. Marinate and barbecue the paneer or tofu as you would the chicken.
* **Cashew Paste Alternative:** If you don’t have cashew paste, you can substitute it with almond butter or a tablespoon of ground cashews.
* **Kasuri Methi is Key:** Don’t skip the kasuri methi! It adds a unique and essential flavor to the butter chicken sauce. Rubbing it between your palms before adding it releases its aroma and flavor.
* **Make Ahead:** The butter chicken sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and add the barbecued chicken when ready to serve.

### Serving Suggestions

* **Naan Bread:** Warm naan bread is a classic accompaniment to butter chicken. Use it to scoop up the delicious sauce.
* **Basmati Rice:** Fluffy basmati rice is another excellent choice for soaking up the sauce.
* **Roti:** Roti, a type of Indian flatbread, is also a great option.
* **Salad:** Serve with a simple cucumber and tomato salad to provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the butter chicken.
* **Mango Lassi:** A refreshing mango lassi is the perfect drink to complement the spicy and creamy flavors of the butter chicken.

### Variations

* **Spicy Butter Chicken:** Add more red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade and sauce for a spicier dish.
* **Garlic Butter Chicken:** Increase the amount of garlic in the sauce for a more garlicky flavor.
* **Honey Butter Chicken:** Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness.
* **Coconut Milk Butter Chicken:** Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free and slightly sweeter version.
* **Slow Cooker Butter Chicken:** While this recipe focuses on the barbecue aspect, you can adapt the sauce to a slow cooker. Sear the chicken first, then add it to the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

### Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 450-550 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

### Enjoy Your Barbecued Butter Chicken!

This barbecued butter chicken recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The smoky flavor from the barbecue elevates the butter chicken to a new level of deliciousness. With a little bit of planning and some attention to detail, you can easily create this restaurant-quality meal at home. Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and prepare to be amazed by this unforgettable flavor combination. Enjoy the smoky, creamy, and utterly irresistible barbecued butter chicken! This recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Experiment with different variations to find your perfect version, and don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen! Happy cooking (and barbecuing)!

**A Final Note:** Remember that barbecue cooking times can vary depending on your grill and the weather. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, and adjust the cooking time accordingly. With practice, you’ll become a master of barbecued butter chicken in no time! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different wood chips for smoking to further customize the flavor profile. For example, applewood chips offer a subtly sweet and fruity smoke, while hickory chips provide a stronger, more pronounced smoky flavor. Have fun with it and enjoy the process! The best part of cooking is sharing your creations with loved ones. This barbecued butter chicken is the perfect dish to bring people together and create lasting memories.

This recipe is not just about following instructions; it’s about embarking on a culinary adventure. Feel free to adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. Add more spice, adjust the sweetness, or try different toppings. The possibilities are endless! The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this recipe is designed to be both delicious and rewarding. So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to create a barbecued butter chicken masterpiece that will impress your friends and family! This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. From the tantalizing aroma of the marinade to the sizzling sounds of the chicken on the grill, every step of the process is a sensory delight. And the final result? A flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your barbecued butter chicken feast today!

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This barbecued butter chicken recipe is a testament to the versatility of Indian cuisine. It’s a dish that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, creating a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. The smoky barbecue notes add a unique dimension to the classic butter chicken, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to create a masterpiece! This is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor, culture, and the joy of cooking. Enjoy!