Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken Recipe

ByLila

I still remember the first time I tasted butter chicken. It was at a small Indian restaurant tucked away in a bustling corner of my city. The rich, velvety sauce, tender chicken, and warm spices hit my taste buds like a cozy hug. I was hooked! From that moment, I knew I had to recreate this dish at home. After tweaking recipes and experimenting in my kitchen, I’ve nailed a butter chicken recipe that’s simple yet bursting with authentic flavors. It’s now a go-to for family dinners or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Cooking butter chicken feels like a little adventure—marinating the chicken, blending spices, and watching the sauce come together. It’s not just food; it’s a way to bring people together. Whether you’re a newbie in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Let’s dive into making this creamy, dreamy butter chicken that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Butter Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tsp minced ginger
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tsp minced ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, chili powder, coriander, garlic, ginger, and salt. Add chicken pieces, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best for max flavor).
  2. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly charred. Alternatively, grill or pan-sear for 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside.
  3. Start the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Spice It Up: Add cumin, garam masala, coriander, and chili powder. Stir for 30 seconds to release flavors.
  6. Build the Sauce: Pour in tomato puree, water, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Make It Creamy: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Add cooked chicken, coating it in the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  8. Finish and Garnish: Taste and adjust salt. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Best Butter Chicken Recipe

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Pro Cooking Tips

  • Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken sit overnight in the marinade deepens the flavor.
  • Char for Authenticity: Grilling or broiling the chicken adds a smoky tandoori-like taste.
  • Control the Heat: Adjust chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
  • Fresh Spices: Use fresh garam masala for a vibrant flavor punch.
  • Smooth Sauce: Blend the sauce after simmering for a restaurant-style texture.

Variations

  • Vegetarian: Swap chicken for paneer or tofu.
  • Low-Fat: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream and reduce butter to 1 tbsp.
  • Spicy Kick: Add chopped green chilies or extra chili powder.
  • Nutty Twist: Stir in 1/4 cup cashew paste for a richer sauce.

Storage Suggestions

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve butter chicken hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Pair with a side of cucumber raita to cool the spices. For a complete meal, add a veggie dish like saag aloo or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 4 Servings)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 680mg

Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter, creamy texture.

Is butter chicken spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can reduce chili powder or skip it for a kid-friendly version.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely, just skip the marinade and add cooked chicken to the sauce.

What’s the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?
Butter chicken is creamier and milder, while tikka masala is tangier and often spicier.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Butter chicken is more than just a dish—it’s a warm, comforting experience that brings smiles to the table. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s no wonder this Indian classic is a global favorite. This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. So, grab your spices, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a homemade bowl of butter chicken bliss. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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