Why Make This Recipe
Butter Chicken is a beloved dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right to your table. It’s rich, creamy, and full of spices that make each bite a delightful experience. If you are looking for a dish that is satisfying and perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, Butter Chicken is an excellent choice. The combination of marinated chicken, a smooth sauce, and aromatic spices makes it a favorite for many.
How to Make Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken in batches and brown for 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce. Stir in sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Season and Simmer: Add heavy cream, cayenne (if using), garam masala, and curry powder. Return chicken to the pan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Finish with Butter: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Taste and adjust salt or spice as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot with naan or rice.
How to Serve Butter Chicken
Serve Butter Chicken warm, accompanied by fluffy naan bread or steamed rice. This combination soaks up the delicious sauce and enhances the flavors of the dish. You can also enjoy it with a side of fresh salad or a cooling cucumber raita for balance.
How to Store Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, store Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Butter Chicken
- Marination: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate longer if you can, even up to overnight.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. Omit it if you like it mild.
- Garnishing: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch, but you can also use cilantro for a traditional flavor.
Variation
You can easily make Butter Chicken vegetarian by substituting chicken with paneer, tofu, or a mix of vegetables. Just cook the vegetables or paneer until tender and follow the same sauce preparation to keep the flavors intact.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use skinless boneless chicken breast, but chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
2. Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes, Butter Chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. What can I serve with Butter Chicken?
Traditionally, it’s served with naan bread and steamed rice. You can also serve it with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.
