Classic Butter Chicken
A rich and creamy Indian curry made with tender chicken in a spiced tomato and butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
- 0.5 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with all the marinade ingredients. Mix well to coat the chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add salt, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add the marinated chicken to the sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Do not boil.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.
Notes
Butter Chicken is a popular dish originating from India. It is known for its rich, creamy, and mildly spiced tomato-based sauce.