Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A plate of velvety butter chicken served with steaming basmati rice and fresh herbs, showcasing a rich, creamy sauce.

Velvety Butter Chicken Dream: Your Go-To Weeknight Delight

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Discover the rich and creamy Velvety Butter Chicken Dream, your go-to weeknight favorite. This homemade butter chicken recipe offers tender chicken simmered in a luscious, velvety tomato and spice sauce, perfect for quick and flavorful dinners. Easy to prepare and delicious, it’s the ultimate comfort food that will impress everyone at your table.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute. Stir in garam masala, cumin, paprika, and turmeric, allowing their aroma to develop.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, stirring well. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
  4. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in heavy cream or coconut cream, stirring to combine into a smooth, velvety sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes until flavors meld together. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but ensure they are not overcooked to stay juicy.
  • For dairy-free options, use coconut milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
  • This recipe can be prepared in advance; reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Options for Dairy-Free, High-Protein

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg