Butter chicken meatballs are topped with a mildly spiced tomato sauce that’s made luscious by adding a bit of cream and butter. This is an absolute beauty. It makes me look forward to the dinners all day when I know we will be having this. As you can imagine, leftovers make for a great lunch the following day.

It can be made in an Instant Pot or on the stovetop. You can also use a regular or immersion blender to make the sauce creamy. This is a great way to use up leftover chicken meatballs. Store-bought meatballs would also be tasty and easy.

The list of spices is long, but you likely already have all the ingredients. Measuring and cooking them into something delicious takes a few minutes.

Butter Chicken Base

  • One tablespoon of Avocado oil or Olive Oil
  • half of an Onion, roughly chopped
  • Three cloves garlic, minced (or garlic paste)
  • a small piece of fresh ginger, grated (or a ginger paste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
  • one 14 Can crushed tomatoes or plain tomato paste
  • 1/2 Water Later, we will add more information.
  • 1/2 teaspoon One teaspoon of kosher salt. You can use up to 1 teaspoon, depending on how salty or sweet you like.
  • One teaspoon Sugar
  • 1 Cooked chicken or turkey meatballs These are the ones that I use every time! This should be approximately four cups of meatballs.

To finish:

  • Two tablespoons Butter
  • 1/3 Heavy cream (more to your taste)

To Serve:

  • 1 1/2 basmati rice or pre-cooked rice
  • 1/4 fresh cilantro

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INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Follow the instructions on the package to prepare your rice.
  2. In a large Dutch oven or skillet, heat oil on medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened.
  3. Add salt, sugar, and Water. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce in the pot, or transfer the sauce into a blender.
  5. Add the sauce back into the pan. Add the meatballs and simmer on low heat with the lid on.
  6. Butter and cream can be added to the sauce to create a delicious, creamy sauce for your meatballs.
  7. Serve with rice and a sprinkle or sprig of cilantro. Cayenne or chili oil can spice up the dish according to your taste.