Description
Indulge in this restaurant-quality butter chicken, a classic North Indian dish featuring succulent, yogurt-marinated chicken simmered in a rich, velvety tomato-based sauce. The perfect balance of aromatic spices, tangy tomatoes, and luscious cream, this recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks while delivering a sophisticated and comforting dining experience. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this butter chicken promises tender meat and a deeply flavorful sauce that is best enjoyed with fresh naan or steamed basmati rice.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 can (15 oz) tomato purée
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger, garlic, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate in the refrigerator overnight.
Heat oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat.
Add chicken pieces in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté onions until translucent and soft.
Add tomato purée, coriander, and sugar. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and oil separates.
Return the seared chicken to the pan and cook for another 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Stir in heavy cream and adjust salt to taste. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
Marinating overnight is highly recommended for the most tender chicken. For a smoother sauce, you can blend the onion and tomato mixture before adding the chicken. Serve alongside warm naan or basmati rice for a complete experience.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Meals
- Method: Stovetop simmering
- Cuisine: Indian