Why I love it
There’s something truly magical about combining two comfort food classics. The Crispy Butter Chicken Burger offers a mouthwatering contrast crispy, golden chicken coated in buttery, spicy flavors, paired with the freshness of the burger toppings. The soft, toasted bun provides the perfect vehicle to hold all these flavors together. It’s the kind of burger that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. The spices, the crunch, and the rich, creamy sauce all come together in harmony.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Introducing the Crispy Butter Chicken Burger – a delicious fusion of classic Indian flavors and the irresistible texture of a fried chicken sandwich! This burger features tender, yogurt-marinated chicken coated in a crispy panko crust and topped with a rich, creamy butter chicken sauce that’s infused with warming spices like garam masala and chili powder. Each bite brings the perfect balance of crunchy, juicy chicken and smooth, tangy sauce, all nestled in a soft, toasted brioche bun. Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions add a refreshing crunch, complementing the richness of the sauce and chicken. If you’re craving a burger with bold flavors and a touch of indulgence, this Crispy Butter Chicken Burger will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Perfect for a weekend treat or a special dinner, it’s a unique spin on a beloved classic!
Recipe
Crispy Butter Chicken Burger
If you're a fan of both burgers and Indian cuisine, you're in for a treat with the Crispy Butter Chicken Burger. This juicy and crispy burger combines the best of both worlds, blending the creamy richness of traditional butter chicken with the satisfying crunch of a well-made burger patty. It’s a burger that delivers on flavor, texture, and an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken thighs (preferably) or chicken breast Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option. Either way, you’ll get a delicious, crispy bite.
- 1 cup plain yogurt The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and soft.
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste This combination of fresh ginger and garlic infuses the chicken with a punch of aromatic flavor that’s essential in butter chicken.
- 1 tbsp garam masala This traditional Indian spice blend adds warmth and complexity to the marinade.
- 1 tbsp chili powder Chili powder gives the burger that subtle kick, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
- 1 tbsp turmeric Turmeric brings a lovely earthy flavor and golden color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning the chicken properly.
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Flour helps give the chicken that golden, crispy exterior we all love.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs Panko adds extra crunch, making the fried chicken light and crispy.
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika Paprika enhances the flavor of the coating with a smoky touch.
- 1 egg (beaten) The egg helps the flour and panko stick to the chicken for that perfect crispy crust.
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter No butter chicken is complete without butter. It adds richness and a creamy texture.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Onions are the base of the sauce, providing sweetness as they cook down.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced Garlic enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
- 1 tbsp cumin Cumin adds a nutty, warm flavor that complements the other spices.
- 1 tbsp chili powder Chili powder adds a bit of heat to balance the richness of the butter.
- 1 tbsp garam masala A key spice blend for achieving that classic butter chicken flavor.
- 1 cup tomato puree Tomato puree gives the sauce its tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
- ½ cup heavy cream Cream gives the sauce its signature silky texture and richness.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color to the sauce.
For the Burger Assembly:
- 4 brioche buns (toasted) Soft, buttery brioche buns are perfect for this rich and flavorful burger.
- Lettuce leaves Fresh and crunchy, the lettuce adds a nice contrast to the creamy sauce and crispy chicken.
- Sliced tomatoes Juicy and sweet, the tomatoes help cut through the richness of the butter chicken sauce.
- Onion slices Thinly sliced onions add a bit of sharpness and crunch to the burger.
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs (or breasts), ensuring each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse. For the best results, marinate overnight.
Prepare the Crispy Coating
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour mixed with smoked paprika. In another bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs. Take each marinated chicken piece, coat it in the flour, dip it into the beaten egg, and then press it into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure it's completely covered.
Fry the Chicken
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Place the cooked chicken on a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
Make the Butter Chicken Sauce
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they are soft and golden brown. Stir in the garlic, cumin, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the tomato puree and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in the cream and cook for another 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Toast the Brioche Buns
- While the chicken is resting, toast the brioche buns in a skillet with a little butter. Toasting the buns adds a delightful crunch and keeps them from becoming soggy.
Assemble the Burger
- To assemble the Crispy Butter Chicken Burger, spread a generous layer of the butter chicken sauce on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Add the crispy chicken patty, then layer with fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and onions. Drizzle more butter chicken sauce on top before adding the bun lid.
Notes
The Crispy Butter Chicken Burger offers a mouthwatering fusion of flavors that any food lover will appreciate. The richness of the butter chicken sauce, combined with the crunch of the fried chicken and the freshness of the lettuce and tomatoes, makes for a perfect bite. If you’re in the mood for another chicken-based burger with bold flavors, check out our Crispy Ace Chicken Burger for an extra hit of heat!
Which Cuisine Does the Crispy Butter Chicken Burger Belong To?
This burger is a delightful fusion of Indian and American cuisine. The butter chicken sauce brings in the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian cooking, while the crispy fried chicken patty and burger assembly represent the quintessential American burger experience. It’s the perfect cross-cultural comfort food!Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 750kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 40g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Conclusion
The Crispy Butter Chicken Burger is more than just a fusion dish—it’s an experience. With its crunchy exterior, juicy interior, and the bold flavors of Indian spices and butter chicken sauce, this burger is sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re a burger lover or an Indian food enthusiast, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds. For those looking to explore more fusion dishes, don’t miss out on the Crispy Ace Chicken Burger, which adds a fiery twist to the classic chicken burger!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Answer: Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for a leaner option. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but if you prefer breast meat, just be cautious not to overcook it, as it can dry out more easily. Marinating overnight can help keep chicken breast tender.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
Answer: Ideally, marinate the chicken overnight to let the flavors fully develop. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for at least 30 minutes will still give a good result. The yogurt in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken, so the longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Answer: Yes, you can bake the chicken as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush the chicken with oil, then bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
4. What can I use if I don’t have garam masala?
Answer: If you don’t have garam masala, you can substitute with a combination of ground cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for a similar warmth and depth. Alternatively, you can use curry powder, though it will have a slightly different flavor profile.
5. Can I make the butter chicken sauce in advance?
Answer: Yes, the butter chicken sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before assembling the burgers. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or cream to adjust the consistency.
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