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Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken

A culinary masterpiece that brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine right into your kitchen with a smooth, buttery sauce enveloping tender chicken.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 1.5 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.

Marinade

  • 1 cup Plain yogurt For marinating the chicken.
  • 2 teaspoons Garam masala Half for marinating, half for finishing.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander

Sauce

  • 1 can (15 oz) Crushed tomatoes Can use fresh tomatoes if preferred.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream For the creamy sauce.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter For cooking and finishing the sauce.
  • 4 cloves Minced garlic For depth of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly grated ginger Adds a zesty brightness.
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Creates a flavorful base.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro leaves For garnish.

Instructions
 

  • Begin by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, half of the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Once the chicken has marinated, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
  • Allow the sauce to simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Finish by stirring in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the remaining garam masala.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
  • Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy