One Pot Indian Butter Chicken Orzo

1. Prep

Prepare all your ingredients before starting to cook. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure you don't miss anything.

2. Sear Protein

Heat a bit of cooking oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and place them in the skillet. Sear until they are golden brown, which will lock in the juices and add depth to the flavor. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Add Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and in the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced onion and a pinch of salt; cook until the onion is translucent and soft, which will sweeten the natural flavors of the onion. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant – be careful not to let them brown, as this can introduce a bitter taste.

4. Caramelize Paste

Add the garam masala and turmeric powder to the skillet, stirring with the aromatics for about a minute. This toasting stage intensifies the spices' flavors, making your dish more aromatic. Now, stir in the tomato puree and sugar, and simmer until the mixture reduces by half. The reduction concentrates the flavors and creates a thicker base for your orzo.

5. Add Cooking Liquid

Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then return the seared chicken to the skillet. Simmer for about 15 minutes, partially covered. This infuses the chicken with the spiced tomato and cream mixture while tenderizing it.

6. Add Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to ensure it's well distributed in the liquid. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the sauce has reduced to a creamy consistency. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking.

7. Finishing Ingredients

Once the orzo is cooked, turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the orzo to absorb any remaining liquid and the flavors to meld together. Just before serving, swirl in a spoonful of yogurt to add a gentle tang and creamy finish. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

8. To Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, if necessary. Plate the butter chicken orzo into bowls and garnish with an extra dollop of yogurt and more cilantro if desired. Enjoy your heartwarming, one-pot meal!