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Homemade Butter Chicken recipe photo

Butter Chicken

This Butter Chicken is SO RICH and CREAMY! Tender chicken simmers in a spiced tomato sauce for a cozy, flavorful Indian classic you'll love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
  • Blender or Food Processor
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt for marinating
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for sautéing
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 cups tomatoes pureed
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder adjust to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream to finish sauce
  • salt to taste
  • fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • 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.
  • Heat the vegetable oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown and soft, about 8-10 minutes.
  • 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, being careful not to burn them.
  • 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 mellow.
  • Add the marinated chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir well to coat. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is cooked through and tender.
  • Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Adjust salt to taste and cook for another 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  • Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top. Serve with basmati rice or warm flatbread.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for up to 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness.
  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat and adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or milk for a lighter, dairy-free version.
  • Slowly caramelize onions to develop a rich, sweet base for the sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Keyword Comfort Food, Creamy, Easy, Spicy