How To Make Butter Chicken Shawarma In Just 5 Simple Steps – It’s Perfect For Dinner Tonight!

Butter chicken and shawarma, two beloved culinary delights, have come together in a harmonious fusion that will tantalize your taste buds. This blog post will guide you through the enchanting journey of creating this delectable dish, providing step-by-step instructions and expert tips to ensure a flavorful experience.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

To embark on this culinary adventure, you will need:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pita breads
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers

Preparing the Butter Chicken Marinade

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, canola oil, butter, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Grilling the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Creating the Butter Chicken Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, cilantro, mint, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened.

Assembling the Shawarma

1. Warm the pita breads on the grill or in the oven.
2. Spread a generous amount of butter chicken sauce on each pita.
3. Top with the sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
4. Roll up the pita and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Shawarma

• Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its tenderness and flavor.
• Grill the chicken over medium-high heat to create a slightly charred exterior.
• Simmer the butter chicken sauce for 10-15 minutes to develop a rich and flavorful taste.
• Serve the shawarma immediately for the best experience.

Variations on Butter Chicken Shawarma

• Spicy Shawarma: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter chicken marinade for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: Substitute tofu or paneer for the chicken.
• Mediterranean Shawarma: Add hummus, feta cheese, and olives to the pita for a Mediterranean twist.

Wrapping Up: A Culinary Delight

Butter chicken shawarma is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with the savory goodness of Middle Eastern street food. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen. Experiment with different variations and enjoy the savory journey of butter chicken shawarma.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the butter chicken shawarma ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the butter chicken sauce and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to serve, simply grill the chicken and assemble the shawarma.

2. What can I serve with butter chicken shawarma?
Butter chicken shawarma can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, naan bread, or a side salad.

3. How can I store the leftover butter chicken shawarma?
Store the leftover shawarma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.