Indulge in the Creamy Delight of Butter Chicken

Imagine a warm bowl of butter chicken, the rich aroma wafting through the air, gently inviting you to delve into its velvety depths. This dish combines the succulent flavors of marinated chicken simmered in a perfectly spiced tomato and cream sauce. With each bite, you experience a symphony of spices that dance on your palate, rendering comfort in every mouthful. The buttery texture envelops tender pieces of chicken, creating a comforting embrace on chilly evenings or during family gatherings.

Butter chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings loved ones together around the table. Perfect for cozy dinners, celebratory occasions, or even a quick weeknight treat, this recipe is versatile enough to cater to all your culinary needs.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 1 hour (including marination)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 people
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Nutrition Information (per serving):
  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g

Note: Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredient brands and specific ingredient types used. (Source: USDA FoodData Central)

Why Make This Recipe

Butter chicken is a timeless classic that perfectly balances flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. The pairing of warm spices and the luxurious creaminess not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills the kitchen with unforgettable aromas. It’s an ideal dish for family gatherings or cozy nights, easily impressing guests while being simple enough for a weeknight meal with minimal fuss.

How to Make Butter Chicken

Ingredients

• Chicken:
  • 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Marinade:
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt to taste
• Butter Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (400g) tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• To Serve:
  • Cooked basmati rice
  • Naan bread

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, and salt. Mix well then add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).

2. Cook Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Brown the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

4. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the tomato puree and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Add Cream and Spice: Pour in the heavy cream, adding coriander powder and seasoning to taste. Allow it to simmer on low for 5 minutes.

6. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves alongside steamed basmati rice and warm naan bread.

Chef’s Tips:

• Avoid overcrowding the skillet while browning the chicken to ensure a nice sear.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

How to Serve

Butter chicken is best served hot, creating a delightful meal on its own or alongside steaming bowls of rice or warm naan. For an extra touch, consider drizzling some butter on top and pairing it with a lovely cup of masala chai or fresh lemonade.

How to Store

• Room Temperature: Butter chicken can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Always reheat until piping hot.
• Freezing: Butter chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips

• Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. The longer it sits, the more flavors it absorbs.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the level of spices according to your taste—add more chili powder for heat or increase the creamy base for a milder option.

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables for a delightful alternative.
• Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with tofu and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free when served with rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. What if my sauce is too thick?
   You can add a splash of water or additional cream to reach your desired consistency.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Butter chicken tastes great when made ahead because the flavors deepen overnight. Follow storage guidelines for best results.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   Full-fat coconut milk is a great dairy-free substitute for heavy cream.

5. What can I do with leftovers?
   Leftovers can be incorporated into wraps, served over salads, or even used in casseroles.

Conclusion

Indulging in homemade butter chicken is a heartwarming journey of flavors that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or treating yourself on a quiet evening, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your feedback, and don’t hesitate to introduce your unique variations—every kitchen is a canvas waiting to be filled with delicious masterpieces! Happy cooking!

Butter Chicken

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• Author: recipesprintgmail-com
• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a rich and creamy butter chicken, featuring marinated chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and cream sauce.

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Ingredients

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• 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (400g) tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice
• Naan bread

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, and salt. Mix well then add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato puree and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, adding coriander powder and seasoning to taste. Allow it to simmer on low for 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves alongside steamed basmati rice and warm naan bread.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Adjust spice levels as desired.

• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg