Description
This lush twist on butter chicken meets Italian pasta for an effortless, cozy dinner. Tender, marinated chicken simmers in a spiced tomato-butter sauce enriched with cream and Parmesan, then entwines with al dente linguine for a bowlful of silky, savory comfort.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Marinade
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1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1″ pieces
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2 Tbsp plain yogurt
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1 tsp garam masala
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1 tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp kosher salt
For the Sauce
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2 Tbsp unsalted butter
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1 small shallot or onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 Tbsp tomato paste
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1 cup (240 ml) canned crushed tomatoes
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½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
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¼ cup (25 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp garam masala
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¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
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Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
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12 oz (340 g) linguine
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Salt, for pasta water
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Reserved pasta cooking water
Garnish
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2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
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Extra Parmesan, for sprinkling
Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the chicken:
In a bowl, whisk yogurt, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Toss chicken pieces to coat. Let rest 10 minutes at room temperature (or refrigerate up to 1 hour).
2️⃣ Cook the linguine:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package directions until just al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
3️⃣ Sear the chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp butter. Add marinated chicken in a single layer; cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
4️⃣ Build the sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 Tbsp butter. Add shallot and sauté 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook 1 minute.
5️⃣ Add tomatoes & cream:
Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, garam masala, and chili flakes if using. Cook 2–3 minutes, stirring, until silky. Season with salt and pepper.
6️⃣ Combine pasta & chicken:
Return chicken to the skillet. Add drained linguine and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time to loosen the sauce.
7️⃣ Garnish & serve:
Divide among plates or bowls. Sprinkle with cilantro and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and dairy-free yogurt for the marinade.
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Spice Level: Increase chili flakes or stir in a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
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Make-Ahead: Marinate chicken and grate cheese in advance.
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Herb Swap: Fresh basil works beautifully in place of cilantro or parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min