Butter Chicken is a vibrant and delicious dish that embodies the essence of Indian cuisine. The flavorful combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices creates a rich and inviting meal that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknights. Its golden hue and fragrant aroma make it hard to resist, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a comforting family dinner.
As you dive into this dish, your senses will be delighted by the smooth texture and spicy-sweet notes. The tender chicken absorbs the spices beautifully, creating a truly satisfying experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through easy preparation steps, share tips for a perfect presentation, and provide ideas for serving that will elevate your Butter Chicken to a showstopper at any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses wholesome, fresh ingredients that enhance flavors.
- Ease of Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up even if you’re new to cooking.
- Nutritional Benefits: Packed with protein from chicken and creamy goodness from heavy cream.
- Versatility: Enjoy it with rice, naan, or even as a wrap for lunch!
- Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually stunning and ideal for special occasions.
Butter Chicken is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 1 hour
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Add salt, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and curry powder. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Carefully add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned on all sides.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Finally, pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Let it cook for another 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in a warm bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.
- Accompaniments: Pair with steamed basmati rice or warm naan for an authentic experience.
- Portions: This recipe serves 4-6, perfect for family meals or small gatherings.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled mango lassi or a light Indian beer.
Your Butter Chicken will be a big hit!
Additional Tips
- Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of lemon just before serving.
- Customize by adding your favorite vegetables like peas or bell peppers.
- Try serving with a side of cooling cucumber raita for balance.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Butter Chicken: Add more chili powder or fresh green chilies for a kick!
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu and adjust the cooking time.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours for tender meat.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container, ensuring you have a quick meal on hand!
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just thaw it before marinating to ensure even cooking.
2. Is Butter Chicken healthy?
It’s a hearty dish with protein from chicken; balance it with a side of veggies for a nutritious meal.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
4. How can I customize it?
Feel free to adjust spices or add vegetables based on your taste preferences.
5. Can I cook it in the oven?
Though usually made on the stove, you can bake marinated chicken in the sauce at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.
Conclusion
Butter Chicken is a delightful, creamy dish that brings joy to any meal. Its rich flavors, simple preparation, and gorgeous presentation make it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Embrace this captivating recipe in your kitchen, and let it win over everyone’s hearts. You’ll be proud to serve up this classic dish!
Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish
Instructions
Marinating Chicken
- Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
- Add salt, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and curry powder. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Carefully add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned on all sides.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Finally, pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Let it cook for another 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
