Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Marinate the Chicken

   In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken with minced garlic, minced ginger, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer in the refrigerator.

2. 2.Cook the Marinated Chicken

   Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and mostly cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, reserving any juices in the pan.

3. 3.Sauté Aromatics and Spices

   Add butter to the same pan with the reserved juices. Once melted, add the diced onion and diced chili peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in garam masala, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.

4. 4.Add Tomatoes and Simmer

   Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) into the pan with the sautéed aromatics and spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.

5. 5.Blend the Gravy

   Carefully transfer the tomato mixture from the pan into a heat-safe bowl. Using an immersion blender, process the mixture until it is completely smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pan.

6. 6.Strain the Gravy

   Place a fine-mesh sieve over the skillet. Pour the blended gravy through the sieve, pressing down on any solids with a spoon or spatula to extract all the liquid, discarding the remaining pulp. This step ensures a silky smooth gravy.

7. 7.Finish with Cream and Chicken

   Return the strained gravy to the stove over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream until well combined and the sauce is creamy. Add the reserved cooked chicken pieces back into the gravy. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with a swirl of cream, fresh cilantro, and red chili flakes if desired.