Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken

Okay, friend—get ready, because this Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken is about to blow your taste buds away. Imagine tender bites of chicken with the perfect crunch, bathed in a rich, velvety butter sauce that’s bursting with sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. It’s a dish that tastes like comfort food heaven with a bold Singapore twist. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something a little extra—this one’s a game-changer. Trust me, once you taste that sauce, you’ll be licking the spoon and plotting your next batch.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken

Crispy + Creamy = Perfection: You get that satisfying crunch from the chicken and then BAM!—a dreamy sauce that coats every bite in buttery magic.
Big, Bold Flavors: It’s got all the flavor layers: a little sweet, a little spicy, a little garlicky—and a whole lot of delicious.
Great for Sharing (or Not!): Perfect for family dinners, date night, or just treating yourself to something special.
Quick and Easy: Yes, even with all that flavor, it’s surprisingly simple to pull off. You’ll feel like a total rockstar in the kitchen.
Customizable: Dial up the heat or mellow it out, swap in veggies, or serve it over rice, noodles, or even naan. This dish plays well with everyone.

Ingredients in Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken

Here’s everything that makes this dish shine—simple ingredients, BIG results:

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Juicy, tender, and perfect for crisping up.
• Cornstarch and Flour: Your crispy coating dream team—light, crunchy, and golden.
• Butter: The star of the sauce. Rich and creamy with that unmistakable flavor.
• Garlic and Ginger: For a bold aromatic base that brings warmth and zing.
• Red Chilies or Chili Paste: Adds a little heat to keep things exciting.
• Evaporated Milk or Heavy Cream: For that silky, creamy texture in the sauce.
• Curry Leaves: A fragrant, slightly nutty touch that’s classic in Singapore-style butter dishes.
• Sugar and Soy Sauce: The perfect sweet-savory balance that rounds it all out.
• Optional Garnishes: Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or even crispy shallots for crunch.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get this buttery, crispy goodness going:

Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry, then toss them in a mixture of cornstarch and flour. This step is key to that ultra-crispy finish.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan or deep fryer until hot (about 350°F/175°C). Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy. Set them aside on paper towels to drain.

Make the Sauce Base

In a clean pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add in minced garlic, grated ginger, red chili, and curry leaves. Let them sizzle and release all their fragrant goodness.

Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the evaporated milk (or cream) and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in sugar and soy sauce, and let the sauce thicken slightly. It should be creamy and glossy.

Toss It All Together

Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and gently toss until each piece is beautifully coated. Let it simmer for just a minute to marry all those incredible flavors.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or roti. Garnish with cilantro, lime juice, or extra chili if you like it hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~480 (depending on portion and ingredients used)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken

Over Steamed Rice: Let that rich, golden sauce soak into fluffy jasmine or basmati rice—chef’s kiss!
With Noodles: Slurp-worthy when tossed with egg noodles or even rice noodles.
On Flatbread: Scoop it up with warm naan or roti for a flavor-packed handheld bite.
As a Bowl Meal: Layer rice, veggies, and butter chicken in a bowl—beautiful and balanced.
Garnished with Herbs and Heat: Top with cilantro, lime wedges, or extra chili oil for a spicy kick.

Additional Tips

Double Fry for Extra Crunch: Want even crispier chicken? Let it rest for a minute, then fry it again for a golden second round.
Control the Heat: Adjust chili based on your spice tolerance—it’s easy to make it mild or fiery.
Dairy-Free? Swap the cream for coconut milk for a delicious twist with a tropical flair.
Reheat Like a Pro: Keep the chicken crispy by reheating it in an oven or air fryer. Add sauce afterward to avoid sogginess.
Meal Prep Magic: The sauce and chicken can be made ahead—just store separately and combine before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A1: Absolutely. Just be careful not to overcook them so they stay tender and juicy.

Q2: Can I make this dish less spicy?
A2: Yes! Simply reduce or omit the chili. The sauce will still be rich and flavorful.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and chicken separate for best texture.

Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
A4: Yes—prep the sauce and chicken in advance. Reheat and combine right before serving.

Q5: Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?
A5: Totally! It adds a different but delicious twist and is great for dairy-free diets.

Q6: What can I serve with this dish besides rice?
A6: Try noodles, naan, or even cauliflower rice if you’re going low-carb.

Q7: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A7: Yes, it won’t be quite as crispy, but it’s still tasty! Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden.

Q8: What does curry leaf add to the dish?
A8: It adds a subtle nutty, citrusy flavor—optional, but worth including if you can find them.

Q9: Can I freeze this dish?
A9: You can freeze the sauce and chicken separately. Thaw and reheat before combining.

Q10: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A10: Use gluten-free soy sauce and flour alternatives, and you’re good to go!

Conclusion

Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken is the kind of dish that makes dinner feel like a special occasion—even if it’s just Tuesday. It’s indulgent yet easy, comforting yet bold, and every bite is a little buttery slice of heaven. Whether you’re serving it up for guests or just treating yourself to something fabulous, this dish delivers major flavor with minimal fuss. So grab your pan, fire up the stove, and get ready to fall in love—one crispy, creamy bite at a time.

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