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This creamy butter chicken is a go-to comfort food that always wins rave reviews around my dinner table. It delivers restaurant-style flavor in under an hour, with just a handful of pantry spices and a few special touches to make the sauce rich and vibrant. Whether you are new to Indian-inspired cooking or a longtime fan, this dish is easy enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough for guests.
I whipped this up once when we needed a cozy meal fast and was blown away by how much my family loved it. It instantly became a regular request at our house especially paired with pillowy naan.
Ingredients
- Skinless boneless chicken thighs: Brings juiciness to the dish Look for fresh chicken with no off smell
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out moisture from the chicken Use kosher salt for even flavor
- Garlic powder: Adds depth and a savory note Choose a powder with minimal additives
- Sweet paprika: For warmth and color Seek out fresh paprika for best taste
- Curry powder: Contributes classic Indian flavor Opt for your favorite mild or medium blend
- Greek yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a slight tang Full-fat works best for richness
- Vegetable oil: Necessary for frying and building a flavorful base Choose a neutral oil
- Butter: Finishes the sauce with silkiness Use real unsalted butter for best results
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic boosts aroma and flavor Smash before mincing for easy prep
- Medium onion: Adds sweetness and body to the sauce Look for a firm yellow or white onion
- Tomato sauce: Brings a bright base Make sure to use unsweetened tomato sauce
- Sugar: Balances tartness from the tomatoes Any kind works but white sugar is classic
- Black pepper: Lifts the flavors Use freshly cracked for boldness
- Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its rich velvety texture Use full-fat cream
- Cayenne pepper (Optional): Adds heat Use fresh cayenne for best kick
- Garam masala: Rounds out the classic Indian flavors Try to buy from a spice shop for freshness
- Freshly chopped parsley: For garnish Adds color and freshness Flat-leaf parsley is prettiest
- Naan bread: For serving Soft pillowy naan is ideal for soaking up sauce
- Steamed rice: For serving Use fluffy basmati for an authentic touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine the chicken pieces with salt garlic powder sweet paprika curry powder and Greek yogurt in a bowl. Mix very well using your hands if possible so each piece is coated in marinade. Allow to sit for at least fifteen minutes while you prepare the sauce ingredients. This step infuses flavor and ensures tender juicy chicken.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Once hot spread the chicken in a single layer. Cook until golden brown on all sides about eight to ten minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even color. Remove the chicken and set aside but keep the oil in the pan for the next step.
- Prepare the Sauce Base:
- Turn the heat down to medium and add one tablespoon butter to the skillet. As it melts scrape up any brown bits left from the chicken using a wooden spoon. Add the minced garlic and diced onion plus a pinch of salt. Sauté for about five minutes until soft and the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour the tomato sauce and sugar into the pan. Stir thoroughly and let simmer for about two to three minutes to mellow the acidity. Return the cooked chicken and any juices back to the pan. Mix everything thoroughly then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Watch the sauce turn a bright orange and become luxuriously thick.
- Season and Simmer:
- Sprinkle with cayenne pepper if you want more heat as well as garam masala curry powder and black pepper. Stir well and adjust salt to taste. Let the whole mixture simmer gently for about ten more minutes so the flavors have time to blend and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish with Butter:
- Add the remaining cold butter to the skillet. Gently swirl or stir just until melted for a glossy silky sauce. If you like scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh herbal touch.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Spoon the butter chicken over hot steamed basmati rice and offer naan bread alongside for scooping up every drop of sauce. Serve straight from the pan while piping hot.
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My favorite part is using Greek yogurt in the marinade It tenderizes the chicken in record time plus I love sneaking a spoonful for myself while cooking. This recipe brings back memories of laughing with family as we reached over the table for another scoop of that silky sauce.
Storage Tips
Butter chicken keeps very well refrigerated. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breast though the result is slightly less juicy. For a dairy-free version use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a vegan butter substitute. If you do not have garam masala try a mix of ground coriander cinnamon and cardamom.
Serving Suggestions
For a classic presentation serve with warm naan and fluffy basmati rice. Add a crunchy cucumber salad or pickled onions for freshness. A dollop of Greek yogurt on top adds extra creaminess.
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Cultural Note
Butter chicken also known as murgh makhani is a beloved Indian dish but this quick version leans on easy ingredients and streamlined steps for everyday cooking. It is a wonderful way to introduce bold spices and international flavors to your family.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How can I ensure the chicken turns out tender?
Marinating the chicken with yogurt and spices helps break down the meat fibers, resulting in juicy, tender pieces when cooked.
- → Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the sauce?
Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature rich and velvety texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter finish.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, increasing the cayenne pepper or adding chopped green chilies will boost the heat to your preference.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
This dish shines when paired with warm naan bread or fluffy steamed rice, which soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Prepare the dish up to a day in advance and store in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen before reheating gently on the stovetop.
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Chicken breast can be used, but thighs offer more flavor and retain juiciness better during cooking.