Butter Chicken

This Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. Made with tender marinated chicken simmered in a velvety tomato-based sauce, this dish is perfect for serving with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice. It’s an easy-to-make, restaurant-quality meal that you can enjoy at home.

Why Everyone Loves Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is a favorite because of its balance of spice, creaminess, and deep flavor. The yogurt-marinated chicken stays juicy and absorbs the rich, buttery sauce, making every bite irresistible. For more comforting meal ideas, check out Quick & Easy Recipes for Every Home Cook.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• ½ tsp salt

Butter Chicken Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup water or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar
• ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp butter and cook the marinated chicken until lightly charred and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same pan, melt the remaining butter and sauté the onion until soft.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, garam masala, paprika, and coriander. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add heavy cream, water or broth, honey, and salt. Mix well and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the sauce and let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.

How to Serve Butter Chicken

• Pair it with warm naan or basmati rice for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side of cucumber raita to balance the richness.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for extra freshness.

How to Store Butter Chicken

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.
• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make the Best Butter Chicken

• Marinate the chicken for at least an hour for deeper flavor.
• Use boneless thighs for extra tenderness, but chicken breasts work too.
• Simmer the sauce well to develop rich, deep flavors.

Variations of Butter Chicken

• Spicy Butter Chicken: Add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk.
• Extra Creamy Butter Chicken: Stir in more butter and cream for a richer texture.

FAQs About Butter Chicken

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Coconut milk or cashew cream are great substitutes for a dairy-free version.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.

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