Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian dish known for its tender chicken pieces cooked in a flavorful, spiced tomato sauce. This comforting classic seamlessly blends buttery smoothness with aromatic spices, making it a favorite for many home cooks and food lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 500g chicken, cut into pieces
- 50g butter
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup cream
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until they are browned and cooked through.
- Step 2: Add the tomato sauce and garam masala to the pan, then simmer gently for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Step 3: Stir in the cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the sauce is rich and smooth before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for an hour before cooking.
Storage
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid curdling the cream.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, butter chicken works well with paneer, tofu, or even lamb, though cooking times may vary.
Is it necessary to use cream?
Cream adds richness and smoothness, but you can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
PrintCreamy Butter Chicken Recipe
A rich and creamy Butter Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken simmered in a flavorful spiced tomato sauce, finished with cream and butter for a classic Indian comfort dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup tomato sauce (pureed tomatoes or tomato puree)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and spices: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, and paprika and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ aroma.
- Simmer in tomato sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Add salt to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add the browned chicken back to the skillet. Cover and let cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
- Finish with cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Adjust the amount of garam masala and paprika for preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute cream with coconut milk.
- Butter Chicken pairs well with naan or steamed basmati rice.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Butter Chicken, Indian Butter Chicken, Creamy Chicken Curry, Garam Masala Chicken, Indian Main Dish
