Introduction
Butter Chicken Naan Pizza is an innovative fusion that brings together the rich flavors of classic Indian butter chicken and the convenience of pizza. This delicious dish combines tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce, served on a warm naan bread base, topped with cheese and fresh herbs. It’s an irresistible meal perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breast: 2 cups, cooked and diced
– Butter: 2 tablespoons
– Onion: 1, finely chopped
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Ginger: 1 inch, grated
– Tomato sauce: 1 cup
– Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
– Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: to taste
– Naan bread: 2 large pieces
– Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded
– Fresh cilantro: for garnish
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 2-4 people.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and salt. Mix thoroughly, and add the chicken pieces. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add oil and sauté diced onions until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute. Then, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, add crushed tomatoes and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Prepare the Naan Base
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Take store-bought naan bread and place it on a baking sheet. Lightly brush the naan with olive oil or melted butter to enhance flavor and crispness.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Spread the butter chicken mixture evenly over each naan. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and any additional toppings like fresh cilantro or chili flakes, if desired.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Place the assembled naan pizzas in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the naan is slightly crisp.
Step 7: Serve
Once out of the oven, let the naan pizzas cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve hot, garnishing with extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Substitutes
You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a vegetarian option.
Note 2: Naan Type
Feel free to use garlic naan or other flavored varieties for added taste.
Note 3: Spice Level
Adjust the amount of paprika and chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
Note 4: Storage
Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Note 5: Freezing
These naan pizzas can be frozen before baking. Wrap each pizza tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Cook techniques
Marinating Chicken
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices enhances flavor and tenderness. Aim to marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
Cooking Chicken
Cook the marinated chicken until it’s well-browned and slightly charred. This can be achieved on a grill or in a hot skillet for optimal flavor development.
Making the Sauce
Prepare the butter sauce by cooking onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Then, incorporate spices, tomatoes, and cream to create a rich, flavorful base.
Preparing Naan
For the naan crust, use a dough made from flour, yeast, and yogurt. Roll it out to the desired thickness before cooking it in a hot pan or oven.
Assembling the Pizza
Spread the butter chicken sauce over the naan base, then top with cheese and any additional toppings before baking to achieve a golden, bubbly finish.
Baking
Bake the naan pizza in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This typically takes about 10-12 minutes depending on your oven.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought naan?
Yes, store-bought naan can be a convenient alternative if you want to save time.
What can I substitute for yogurt in the marinade?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover butter chicken naan pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze butter chicken naan pizza?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure it’s wrapped properly to prevent freezer burn.
What toppings can I add to the pizza?
You can add toppings like diced red onions, cilantro, or additional cheeses according to your preference.
Conclusion
For a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, Butter Chicken Naan Pizza offers a flavorful fusion that satisfies your cravings. The combination of tender marinated chicken, rich sauce, and soft naan creates a unique dining experience perfect for any occasion. This dish not only showcases the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine but also provides an easy and fun way to enjoy pizza.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chickpea Naan Pizza
Swap out the chicken for spiced chickpeas for a vegetarian version that’s equally delicious and packed with protein.
Paneer Tikka Naan Pizza
Use marinated paneer cubes instead of chicken for a creamy, cheesy alternative that highlights classic Indian flavors.
BBQ Chicken Naan Pizza
Mix up the sauce by using BBQ chicken, adding a smoky twist to your naan pizza while keeping it easy and tasty.
Vegetable Naan Pizza
Top your naan with a variety of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions for a healthy, colorful option.
Butter Chicken Pasta
Expand the flavors of butter chicken into a pasta dish, tossing cooked pasta with the butter chicken sauce for a comforting meal.
Butter Chicken Tacos
Use butter chicken as a filling for soft tortillas, garnishing with fresh cilantro and slaw for a fusion taco experience.
Indian Spiced Quesadilla
Stuff tortillas with butter chicken and cheese, then grill for crispy quesadillas that bring a new twist to your appetizer spread.