Experience the mouthwatering flavors of butter chicken, a beloved Indian dish that has captured hearts worldwide. This recipe features succulent chicken pieces simmered in a luscious, spiced tomato sauce enriched with butter and cream, making it the perfect comfort food. Serve it with naan or rice for an unforgettable meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
– 1 cup yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
– 1 tsp turmeric powder
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 tbsp butter
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 30g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 35g of protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, coating them well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add remaining butter.
- Pour in tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add cream and stir until well combined.
- Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, coconut cream can be used instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. A side of cucumber salad or raita complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
- Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to less flavor.
- Using low-quality tomatoes can affect the sauce’s taste.
- Skipping the cream will alter the dish’s creamy texture.
- Not balancing spices can make the dish too spicy or bland.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken marinate overnight for deeper flavors.
- Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference.
- For a smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken before adding it to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure to thaw it completely before marinating for better flavor absorption.
Is butter chicken spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the chili powder for a milder taste.
Can I make butter chicken vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
What should I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken is best served with naan, basmati rice, or a side of salad for a complete meal.
How long does butter chicken last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Butter chicken is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a favorite for many. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, perfect for any occasion.
Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, coating them well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add remaining butter.
- Pour in tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add cream and stir until well combined.
- Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
