Delicious butter chicken served with rice and naan bread.

Butter Chicken

ByOrya Morgan
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Why make this recipe

Butter Chicken is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken are a delightful match, making it a favorite in many households. The blend of spices brings a hint of exotic flavor, while the use of yogurt tenderizes the chicken, creating a rich and satisfying experience. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

How to make Butter Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

  1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a pan, heat butter and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
  3. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  5. Add heavy cream, mix well, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
  6. Adjust salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  7. Serve with naan or rice.

How to serve Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is best served hot with naan or steamed rice. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with both, making every bite enjoyable. You can also serve it with a side of vegetable salad or pickles to add a refreshing contrast.

How to store Butter Chicken

To store Butter Chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Tips to make Butter Chicken

  1. Marination: Allow the chicken to marinate longer for better flavor—up to 2 hours if you have time.
  2. Sauteing: Make sure the onions are fully cooked and golden for a deeper flavor.
  3. Adjusting Spice: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of Butter Chicken using paneer or chickpeas instead of chicken. The cooking process remains the same, and you can enjoy a delicious plant-based meal.

FAQs

Can I use other meats for Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb or shrimp. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is Butter Chicken spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Reduce the chili powder for a milder dish.

Can I make Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is a beloved dish with a creamy sauce and tender chicken that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the marinade
  • 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to taste
For the cooking
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • to taste none Salt
  • for garnish none Fresh cilantro

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
  1. In a pan, heat butter and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
  2. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  4. Add heavy cream, mix well, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
  5. Adjust salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Notes

Serve with naan or steamed rice. To store Butter Chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

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