Homemade Butter Chicken

A rich, creamy, and flavorful dish, Homemade Butter Chicken is the perfect comfort food. This classic Indian dish combines tender chicken pieces simmered in a luscious tomato-based curry, creating a harmonious balance of spices, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness. It’s a restaurant favorite that you can now make easily at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Get the taste of your favorite Indian restaurant right in your own kitchen.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and steps, this dish is perfect even for beginners.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and creaminess to suit your preference.
• Family Favorite: Its mild yet flavorful taste is a hit with both kids and adults.
• Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for delicious meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless chicken (thighs or breasts)
• Plain yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Garlic and ginger (minced)
• Garam masala
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Kashmiri chili powder or paprika
• Salt
• Butter
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Tomato puree
• Heavy cream
• Sugar
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Cook the marinated chicken pieces until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add more butter and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
4. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato puree, garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and a pinch of sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Blend and Simmer: For a smoother sauce, blend the mixture using an immersion blender. Return to heat and stir in heavy cream.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy: Add more chili powder or fresh green chilies for extra heat.
• Low-Calorie: Use low-fat yogurt and coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of cashew paste for a richer taste.
• Herby Twist: Garnish with mint leaves along with cilantro for a refreshing touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to avoid splitting the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or cashew paste as a substitute for heavy cream.

2. What type of chicken works best for butter chicken?

Boneless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too.

3. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.

4. How do I make the sauce smoother?

Use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a regular blender for a silky texture.

5. Is butter chicken spicy?

Butter chicken is mildly spiced, but you can adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less chili powder.

6. What can I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs well with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

7. Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, canned tomatoes or tomato paste can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes.

8. How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency.

9. Can I make butter chicken in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

10. How can I reduce the cooking time?

Use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Conclusion

Homemade Butter Chicken is a delectable dish that brings the warmth and richness of Indian cuisine to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and absolutely delicious. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

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