Description
This classic Butter Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken marinated in yogurt and aromatic spices, cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. It’s a creamy, flavorful Indian dish perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- Chili powder, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Sauce and Cooking
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece ginger, minced
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, garam masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a portion of the butter, then add the marinated chicken. Cook until the chicken turns golden brown on all sides but is not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger until fragrant and the onions are translucent. Add the crushed tomatoes or tomato puree along with the remaining spices. Stir well and simmer the sauce gently for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop flavor.
- Finish Cooking Chicken: Return the sautéed chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream to enrich the sauce, mixing well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or chili powder if needed. Heat through for a couple more minutes without boiling.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra richness and authentic flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Adjust chili powder according to your desired spice level.
- Marinating longer, up to overnight, enhances the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.
- Leftover butter chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
