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Butter Chicken

Tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-butter sauce infused with warm spices. A comforting, restaurant-style classic made easy at home.
Prep Time: 15 minutesMarinate Time: 30 minutes (up to overnight)Cook Time: 30 minutesTotal Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Main CourseCuisine: Indian-InspiredKeyword: butter chickenServings: 4 servings

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken & Marinade
  • 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • ½ cup full-fat plain yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Butter Chicken Sauce
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup tomato purée or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp chili powder optional
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Extra cream swirl

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, paprika, and salt. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with oil. Cook marinated chicken until lightly browned and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, melt butter. Add onion and cook until soft and lightly golden.
  4. Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook briefly until fragrant.
  5. Add tomato purée and simmer 8–10 minutes until thickened and rich.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream gently until smooth.
  7. Return chicken to the pan and simmer 5–10 minutes until tender and coated in sauce.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Rest briefly before serving. Garnish if desired.