Butter Chicken Recipe
Butter chicken recipe is a delightful journey into the heart of Indian cuisine, where tender chicken pieces are enveloped in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce. This dish bursts with aromatic spices like garam masala and turmeric, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. With a touch of buttery goodness and a hint of sweetness from honey, it’s the perfect comfort food. Serve it with fluffy naan or fragrant basmati rice, and watch as it transforms your dinner into a warm, inviting feast that everyone will love!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Butter Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Pan For cooking the chicken and sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 kg Boneless Chicken Tender and juicy pieces are best.
- 1 cup Yogurt Helps to marinate the chicken.
Spices
- 1 tbsp Ginger Fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty kick.
- 1 tbsp Garlic Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup Tomatoes Use crushed or pureed.
- 4 tbsp Butter Adds creaminess and depth.
- 1/2 cup Cream For a velvety texture.
- 1 tbsp Garam Masala Gives the dish its signature warmth.
- 1 tsp Cumin Adds an earthy flavor.
- 1 tbsp Coriander Brightens up the dish.
- 1 tsp Chili Powder Adjust to taste for heat.
- to taste Salt Enhances all flavors.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro For garnish.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect boneless chicken, yogurt, garlic, ginger, spices, tomato puree, cream, and butter.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same pan, add more butter. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Stir in tomato puree and spices. Cook for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Add the cooked chicken back to the sauce. Stir well to coat. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 6: Add Cream
- Pour in cream and stir gently. Cook for another 5 minutes until creamy and delicious.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with rice or naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Dig in and savor every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken Recipe
- It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up any day of the week.
- Rich, creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or naan.
- Customizable spice levels to suit your taste buds.
- A family favorite that brings everyone together at the dinner table.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | Indian |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With rice or naan |
Ingredients for Butter Chicken Recipe
- Chicken – the star of the dish, tender and juicy pieces are best.
- Yogurt – helps to marinate the chicken, adding flavor and tenderness.
- Ginger – fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty kick to the sauce.
- Garlic – enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- Tomatoes – provide a rich base for the sauce, use crushed or pureed.
- Butter – adds creaminess and depth to the sauce, making it luxurious.
- Cream – for a velvety texture and rich flavor in the sauce.
- Garam Masala – a blend of spices that gives the dish its signature warmth.
- Cumin – adds an earthy flavor that complements the spices.
- Coriander – fresh or ground, it brightens up the dish with its citrusy notes.
- Chili Powder – adjust to taste for a bit of heat in the sauce.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors, be sure to season to taste.
- Fresh Cilantro – for garnish, adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make the Butter Chicken Recipe
Get ready to create a delicious butter chicken that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect boneless chicken, yogurt, garlic, ginger, spices, tomato puree, cream, and butter.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, add more butter. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Stir in tomato puree and spices. Cook for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken back to the sauce. Stir well to coat. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 6: Add Cream
Pour in cream and stir gently. Cook for another 5 minutes until creamy and delicious.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with rice or naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Dig in and savor every bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Butter Chicken Recipe
- Use fresh spices for a vibrant flavor; toast them lightly before adding.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for tender, flavorful results.
- For a creamier sauce, blend in some cashew cream or coconut milk.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chili peppers to suit your taste.
- Serve with warm naan or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Serve Butter Chicken Recipe
- Serve butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice for a classic combo.
- Pair with warm naan bread for dipping and scooping.
- Add a side of cooling cucumber raita to balance the spices.
- Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy twist.
- Try it with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative.
- Offer a simple salad with lemon dressing for a refreshing contrast.
- For a fun twist, serve in a wrap or pita for a delicious sandwich.
- Garnish with a drizzle of cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your butter chicken later without losing flavor.
Storing Leftovers
– Allow the butter chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
– Transfer to an airtight container for best results.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
– Portion the butter chicken into freezer-safe containers.
– Leave some space at the top for expansion.
– Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
– Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
Reheating
– Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
– Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
– Add a splash of water or cream to maintain creaminess.
– Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
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FAQs
What can I use instead of heavy cream in the butter chicken recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt. Both alternatives will give your butter chicken a creamy texture while adding a unique flavor twist!
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan, or even a fresh salad. These sides will complement the rich flavors of the dish and make for a satisfying meal.
How can I make my butter chicken spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more garam masala, cayenne pepper, or fresh green chilies to the recipe. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste for the perfect level of spice!