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–+ servings

Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken delivers cozy, creamy takeout comfort on busy weeknights with simple steps and easy ingredient swaps. Tender chicken simmers in a silky, rich tomato-cream sauce spiced with garam masala, ginger, garlic, and a touch of fenugreek for authentic warmth without fuss.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 460 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the marinade

  • 1 cup Plain yogurt, full-fat if possible Full-fat yogurt gives better texture and flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, freshly grated Add more for a more pronounced flavor.
  • 1 inch Ginger, freshly grated Fresh ginger adds a nice spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Garam masala Start with this amount and adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Ground cumin adds a warm flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Ground coriander complements the spices.
  • 1 pinch Turmeric Optional for color and slight flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste.

Main ingredients

  • 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces Thighs are recommended for tenderness.
  • 1 tablespoon Neutral oil For searing the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1 cup Tomato puree or passata Smooth texture is preferred.
  • 1 splash Cream For creaminess; adjust amount to preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder Adjust for more spice.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar or honey To balance acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish.

Instructions
 

Marinate

  • In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Toss the chicken until coated. Marinate at least 30 minutes, though 2 to 4 hours is ideal.

Sear and Simmer

  • Heat a large skillet with a drizzle of oil over medium-high. Add the chicken in batches to brown it, not steam it.
  • Transfer the seared chicken to a plate.
  • Lower the heat to medium and add a small knob of butter. Then add more garlic and ginger if preferred.
  • Pour in the tomato puree and let it bubble gently for 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Stir in garam masala, cumin, chili powder, and sugar or honey.
  • Slide the chicken and any juices back in and simmer until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Finish and Adjust

  • Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the remaining butter and a splash of cream until the sauce is silky.
  • Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, and heat. If too thick, loosen with water.
  • Finish with chopped cilantro.

Notes

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes off the heat for the flavors to round out. Pair with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 460kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
Keyword Butter Chicken, Chicken Curry, Easy Dinner, Indian Comfort Food, Weeknight Cooking
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