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.
500gboneless chicken thighs (preferably) or chicken breastChicken thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option. Either way, you’ll get a delicious, crispy bite.
1cupplain yogurtThe yogurt tenderizes the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and soft.
1tbspginger-garlic pasteThis combination of fresh ginger and garlic infuses the chicken with a punch of aromatic flavor that’s essential in butter chicken.
1tbspgaram masalaThis traditional Indian spice blend adds warmth and complexity to the marinade.
1tbspchili powderChili powder gives the burger that subtle kick, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
1tbspturmericTurmeric brings a lovely earthy flavor and golden color to the chicken.
Salt and pepper to tasteEssential for seasoning the chicken properly.
For the Crispy Coating:
1cupall-purpose flourFlour helps give the chicken that golden, crispy exterior we all love.
1cuppanko breadcrumbsPanko adds extra crunch, making the fried chicken light and crispy.
1tbspsmoked paprikaPaprika enhances the flavor of the coating with a smoky touch.
1egg (beaten)The egg helps the flour and panko stick to the chicken for that perfect crispy crust.
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
2tbspbutterNo butter chicken is complete without butter. It adds richness and a creamy texture.
1small onion, finely choppedOnions are the base of the sauce, providing sweetness as they cook down.
2garlic cloves, mincedGarlic enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
1tbspcuminCumin adds a nutty, warm flavor that complements the other spices.
1tbspchili powderChili powder adds a bit of heat to balance the richness of the butter.
1tbspgaram masalaA key spice blend for achieving that classic butter chicken flavor.
1cuptomato pureeTomato puree gives the sauce its tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
½cupheavy creamCream 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:
4brioche buns (toasted)Soft, buttery brioche buns are perfect for this rich and flavorful burger.
Lettuce leavesFresh and crunchy, the lettuce adds a nice contrast to the creamy sauce and crispy chicken.
Sliced tomatoesJuicy and sweet, the tomatoes help cut through the richness of the butter chicken sauce.
Onion slicesThinly 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!