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A plate of golden-brown butter chicken served with steaming basmati rice and fresh naan bread, garnished with cilantro and a sprinkle of spices.

Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Delight

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Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Delight is a simple yet delicious Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe offers a quick, straightforward way to enjoy restaurant-quality butter chicken at home, packed with aromatic spices and smooth textures.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or whole milk yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for dairy-free)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken with Greek yogurt, a pinch of salt, and turmeric. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil or ghee and cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in spices: cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for a minute.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Return the chicken to the pan, add heavy cream, and simmer for another 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  • Adjust spice levels to suit your taste—add more chili for heat or less for milder flavor.
  • Use fresh spices for a more vibrant aroma.
  • Allow the sauce to thicken sufficiently for a creamy consistency.
  • Garnish with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired
  • Diet: Dairy options available, adaptable for gluten-free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg