This quick and easy butter chicken recipe features succulent chicken pieces in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, perfect for family nights or festive gatherings.
Servings 4servings
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
1.5poundsskinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
1teaspoonsalt
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoonsweet paprika
0.5teaspooncurry powder
1tablespoonGreek yogurtPlain yogurt can be used as a substitute.
For the Sauce
3tablespoonsvegetable oil
3tablespoonsbutter, divided
6clovesgarlic, minced
1mediumonion, diced
115-ounce cantomato sauce
1teaspoonsugar
1teaspoonsalt (adjust to taste)
0.5teaspoonblack pepper
2cupsheavy creamCan substitute with coconut milk for a lighter version.
0.5teaspooncayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1teaspoongaram masala
0.5teaspooncurry powder
0.25cupfreshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
To Serve
1servingNaan bread
1servingSteamed rice
Method
Marinating the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking the Sauce
Heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, and heavy cream. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the cayenne pepper. Add the garam masala and curry powder, then let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
Cooking the Chicken
In a separate pan, cook the marinated chicken until it's browned and cooked through. Make sure to turn the pieces to cook them evenly.
Add the cooked chicken to the simmering sauce and stir in the remaining butter. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
Serving
Garnish your butter chicken with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot with warm naan bread and steamed rice for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredient Substitutions: If you don't have Greek yogurt, plain yogurt works too. For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. Optional Variations: Add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also use chicken breast instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat. Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.