Step 1

Combine all the marinade ingredients in a glass bowl. Toss to combine, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

Step 2

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter and the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Add the garam masala, chili powder, cayenne and salt. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the marinated chicken pieces. Don’t worry about scraping out any remaining marinade mixture - just discard. Sauté until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through. Reduce the heat, and add the half-and-half and remaining tablespoon of butter, and warm gently until the butter is melted. Remove from the heat.

Step 4

Serve over hot rice and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.