3 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size chunks
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp garam masala, divided
2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
8 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp butter
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tsp cayenne
2 tbsp neutral oil
salt to taste
Steamed White Rice to serve
1Marinate — In a large bowl, toss the chicken with the yogurt, 1 tbsp garam masala, ginger, and garlic. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 8–12 hours overnight.
2Sear — Heat the oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches so the chicken is not crowded, brown the marinated chicken on the outside. It does not need to be cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
3Build the base — Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same pot. Add the finely chopped yellow onions and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden. Add the remaining 1 tbsp garam masala, cumin, and cayenne; cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4Simmer — Add the crushed tomatoes and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5Finish — Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Warm gently for 2–3 minutes without boiling. Taste and add salt as needed. Serve over steamed rice.
The overnight marinade is worth planning for; it seasons the thighs all the way through.
Cools and freezes beautifully in meal-sized portions; thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of cream.