Butter Chicken is one of those magical dishes that brings people together, and I can’t help but get excited just thinking about it! Imagine tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s rich and comforting. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Growing up, this was a staple at our family gatherings, and the smell of it cooking always meant something special was about to happen. I’ve spent years perfecting my Butter Chicken recipe, and I can confidently say it’s one of my all-time favorites. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish in Indian cuisine. The combination of spices and that luscious creaminess will have you coming back for seconds (or even thirds!). Are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure with me? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the most delicious Butter Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound chicken fillet: Cut into bite-sized pieces. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a tender bite, but thighs work great too if you want a bit more flavor!
- 1 cup yogurt: This acts as a marinade and tenderizer for the chicken. I prefer plain, whole milk yogurt for its creaminess, but any plain yogurt will do.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It adds a lovely brightness to the marinade.
- 2 teaspoons garam masala: This fragrant spice blend is essential for that classic Indian flavor. If you can, use fresh garam masala for an incredible aroma.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy depth to the dish. Ground cumin works perfectly here.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For a touch of color and mild sweetness. You can use smoked paprika if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Adjust to taste!
- 2 tablespoons butter: This is going to help sauté the onions and give the dish that rich, buttery flavor we love.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Sweet or yellow onions work best; they add sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that punch of flavor. Don’t skimp on this!
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Fresh ginger adds warmth and a slight zing that complements the spices beautifully.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree: This is the base of our sauce, lending that rich color and flavor. If you can find it, crushed tomatoes work well too!
- 1 cup heavy cream: Ah, the magic ingredient! This is what makes our sauce so creamy and dreamy. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: This is optional, but it adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking, and you’ll be set up for success in making the best Butter Chicken ever!
How to Prepare Butter Chicken
Now that we have everything ready, let’s get down to the fun part—cooking! Follow my steps for the perfect Butter Chicken that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Marinate the Chicken
First things first, let’s marinate our chicken! In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth. Then, add your chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated in that flavorful marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you’ve got the time, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight will really enhance the flavors. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Cook the Aromatics
Once your chicken is marinated and ready to go, it’s time to cook the aromatics! Grab a large pan and heat the butter over medium heat. As it melts, it’ll start to smell amazing! Add the finely chopped onions and cook them until they’re soft and translucent, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for another minute or so, just until they’re fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; we want all that lovely flavor!
Brown the Chicken
Now, it’s time to add the marinated chicken to the pan. Make sure to shake off any excess marinade before adding it in. This step is crucial—don’t overcrowd the pan! If you add too much chicken at once, it’ll steam instead of brown. Cook the chicken for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned on all sides. That golden color means all those flavors are building up!
Create the Sauce
Next up, let’s create that delicious sauce! Pour in the tomato puree and sugar, stirring everything to combine. The sugar will help balance out the acidity of the tomatoes, making for a well-rounded flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This is where all those flavors meld together beautifully, so don’t rush this step!
Finish with Cream
Finally, it’s time to finish off our Butter Chicken with the heavy cream. Pour it into the pan and stir until everything is well mixed. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, just to allow the cream to marry with all those spices and flavors. The sauce should be rich and creamy, and oh-so-inviting! You’ll want to dive right in, but hold on for just a moment—we’ve got some garnishing to do!
Tips for Success
Before you serve up this delicious Butter Chicken, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure you absolutely nail it every time!
- Adjust the Spices: Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices to suit your taste! If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red chili powder or some chopped green chilies. For a milder version, stick to the basics and omit any extra heat.
- Marinate Longer: If you can, let the chicken marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making each bite even more flavorful and tender.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, avoid dried spices that have been sitting in your cupboard for ages. Fresh is always best!
- Serve with Naan or Rice: Butter Chicken is best enjoyed with warm naan or a fluffy bed of basmati rice. They soak up that creamy sauce beautifully—trust me, you won’t want to miss that!
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the dish. You can also drizzle a little extra cream on top for a fancy touch.
- Make it Ahead: This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat gently on the stove and you’re good to go!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the best Butter Chicken that’ll impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a little marinating time and straightforward steps, you can have this delicious Butter Chicken on the table in about 1.5 hours!
- Rich Flavors: The combination of spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or a casual weeknight meal, Butter Chicken fits right in!
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to introduce them to Indian cuisine!
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with warm naan, fluffy rice, or even a fresh salad—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Butter Chicken, it’s nice to know what you’re getting nutritionally! Here’s an estimate of the typical values per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 18 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and your portion sizes. But don’t let the numbers fool you—this dish is not just about nutrition; it’s about the joy it brings to the table! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some common queries about Butter Chicken. Let’s dive in!
Can I make Butter Chicken with different proteins?
Absolutely! While chicken is a classic choice, you can use shrimp, paneer, or even vegetables for a delightful vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks quickly, and veggies may need a bit more time to soften.
What can I substitute for yogurt?
If you’re looking for a yogurt substitute, you can use buttermilk, sour cream, or even a non-dairy yogurt like coconut yogurt. Each will add a unique flavor while still helping to tenderize the chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
To store your delicious Butter Chicken, simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months! Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! Butter Chicken actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Yum!
What should I serve with Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken is best served with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice to soak up that luscious sauce. You can also add a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious Butter Chicken, you’ll want to make sure those leftovers are stored properly so you can savor them again later! Here’s how to do it:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the Butter Chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your dish watery. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just portion the Butter Chicken into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, let’s talk reheating! You want to keep that creamy goodness intact:
- Reheating on the Stove: This is my favorite method! Simply pour the Butter Chicken into a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water or extra cream if it looks too thick. Heat until it’s warmed through, and you’re good to go!
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it. Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Butter Chicken just as much the next day (or even the day after that!). Happy eating!
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Butter Chicken: 5 Comforting Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Butter Chicken is a popular Indian dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken fillet, cut into pieces
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt for at least 1 hour.
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until onions are soft.
- Add marinated chicken to the pan. Cook until chicken is browned.
- Stir in tomato puree and sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and mix well. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with naan or rice.
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Can use store-bought curry paste for convenience.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 18 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Butter Chicken, Indian Cuisine, Chicken Dishes