Butter Chicken

Few dishes embody comfort and indulgence quite like Butter Chicken. This iconic Indian curry is a luscious blend of tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, making Butter Chicken at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with intoxicating aromas and your plate with vibrant flavors.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Butter Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Here’s why it deserves a prime spot in your recipe collection:

• Rich, Creamy Sauce: The velvety tomato and cream base combines with aromatic spices to create a sauce that’s both indulgent and balanced.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Despite its complex flavor profile, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it with steamed basmati rice or a warm Homemade Soft Flatbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Entertaining: It’s impressive enough to serve guests but cozy enough for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the chili powder according to your preferred spice tolerance without sacrificing flavor.

The Essentials

To create the perfect Butter Chicken, having the right ingredients on hand is key. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces – lean and tender, ideal for soaking up the sauce.
• 1 cup plain yogurt – used to marinate the chicken, tenderizing and adding subtle tang.
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste – infuses deep fragrance and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for sautéing the onions and spices.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped – the base for the sauce, slowly caramelized for sweetness.
• 2 cups tomatoes, pureed – forms the rich and tangy curry base.
• 1 tablespoon garam masala – a fragrant blend that defines the curry’s warmth.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin – earthy and nutty, complements other spices.
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander – fresh and citrusy undertones.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder – adds a golden hue and subtle earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder – for mild heat; adjust to taste.
• 1 cup heavy cream – finishes the sauce with dreamy richness.
• Salt to taste – balances and enhances flavors.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness.

Must-Have Equipment

Cooking this delicious dish requires just a handful of kitchen tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan – for browning chicken and cooking the sauce evenly.
• Blender or food processor – to puree the tomatoes smoothly.
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise spice and ingredient measurement.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for prepping chicken and onions.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir without scratching your cookware.

From Start to Finish: Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat every piece evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Heat the vegetable oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and soft, about 8-10 minutes. This slow caramelization brings out their natural sweetness, forming the flavor base for your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their aromatic oils. Be careful not to burn them.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomato Puree

Pour in the pureed tomatoes and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the raw tomato flavor to mellow out.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken with the flavorful base. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. This step transforms the sauce into the signature rich and silky texture that Butter Chicken is known for. Adjust salt to taste and cook for another 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top. Serve your Butter Chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm Homemade Soft Flatbread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Ingredient Flex Options

• Chicken Cuts: Swap chicken breast for thigh pieces if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
• Dairy: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk.
• Spices: Feel free to add a cinnamon stick or cardamom pods during simmering for extra warmth.
• Heat Level: Adjust the red chili powder or include fresh green chilies to make it spicier.
• Oil: Use ghee instead of vegetable oil for a nuttier, more authentic flavor.

Behind the Recipe

Butter Chicken originated in Delhi, India, where it was invented as a way to use leftover tandoori chicken by cooking it in a spiced tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. This dish has since become a beloved staple worldwide. The balance of tangy, creamy, and spiced flavors creates a comforting yet vibrant profile that appeals to many palates.

• The yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken, ensuring it remains juicy throughout cooking.
• Slowly cooking the onions and spices allows the sauce to develop depth and complexity.
• Pureed tomatoes add body and sweetness, balancing the heat from chili powder.
• The finishing cream smooths the sauce and mellows the spices, creating that signature buttery texture.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare several components of this recipe ahead of time to save on busy nights:

• Marinate the chicken: Do this up to 4 hours in advance or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
• Make the tomato-onion base: Prepare the sauce base a day ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently before adding chicken and cream.
• Storage: Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and richness to the dish. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces as with the breasts, and adjust cooking time if needed.

Is there a way to make Butter Chicken healthier?

Yes! You can reduce the cream quantity or substitute with coconut milk for a lighter sauce. Using less oil and lean chicken breast also helps keep it on the healthier side.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Definitely! For a fuss-free approach, check out this Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe that streamlines the process without sacrificing flavor.

What should I serve with Butter Chicken?

Traditional pairings include steamed basmati rice and warm Homemade Soft Flatbread. You can also try it with naan, roti, or even simple steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

More from the Kitchen

• Chicken Jalfrezi – another vibrant Indian chicken curry full of fresh peppers and spices.
• Homemade Soft Flatbread – the perfect companion to soak up your luscious curry sauces.
• Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe – for a quicker, hands-off version of this classic dish.

Before You Go

Making Butter Chicken at home is a delightful way to bring a taste of Indian cuisine to your table. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish any night of the week. Remember, the key to success lies in the marinade and slow-cooked sauce that builds layers of flavor. Don’t forget to pair it with fluffy rice or your favorite flatbread to complete the experience. Happy cooking!

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