Easy Butter Chicken: A Creamy, Mildly Spiced Indian Curry
If there is one dish that brings together the warmth of Indian cuisine and the satisfaction of home-cooked meals, itโs Butter Chicken. Renowned for its rich, creamy sauce and tender pieces of chicken, Butter Chicken is not only a favorite in most Indian households but has also made a name for itself globally. Its origins trace back to the streets of Delhi, where leftover chicken was simmered in a luscious tomato-and-cream-based sauce, and it has since evolved into an iconic delicacy.
This easy Butter Chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. Whether you are looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this homemade Butter Chicken recipe will tick all the boxes. Plus, don’t forget that there are variations available to cater to diverse dietary preferences, including a vegan Butter Chicken that is equally delicious. With just a few steps and a pinch of love, you’ll create a flavorful, mildly spiced Indian curry that everyone will adore!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 people
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 400g canned tomatoes (diced or crushed)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green chilies (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions
– For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened coconut yogurt and coconut cream.
– If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit the fresh green chilies.
– Swap chicken for chickpeas or paneer for a vegetarian option.
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Large cooking pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spatula or ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Sautรฉ the Onions: Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onions and sautรฉ for about 5โ6 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial for developing the base flavors of the sauce.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced or crushed tomatoes along with sugar (if using). Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Chicken: While the sauce simmers, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, around 6โ8 minutes. This step sears the chicken and locks in moisture.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked chicken into the sauce pot. Stir well to combine. Pour in the cream or coconut cream, stirring until you have a smooth texture. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the sauce’s flavors.
- Final Touches: Adjust salt to taste and sprinkle in additional garam masala for enhanced flavor. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and sliced green chilies if desired. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread to scoop up the delightful sauce.
Special Notes
– Leftover Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain creaminess.
– For meal prep, marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
– If you find the sauce is too thick during cooking, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or canned coconut milk until you achieve your preferred consistency.
Variations and Customizations
– For gluten-free options, ensure that all spices and ingredients are certified gluten-free.
– Vegan Butter Chicken can be made by replacing chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or paneer and using coconut yogurt and cream.
– To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding spinach for a Palak Butter Chicken twist or roasted vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini.
Nutritional Information (Optional)
Estimated per serving (based on traditional preparation):
– Calories: 460
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 34g
– Carbohydrates: 14g
– Fiber: 2g
Engaging Visual Details
The finished Butter Chicken should be a glorious amber color, with a glossy sheen from the cream and sauces. The tender chicken pieces should appear well-coated in the rich, spiced sauce, garnished with vibrant green cilantro for a pop of color. The aroma should be a comforting blend of spices, with warm notes of garlic and ginger wafting through your kitchen.
Consider including images at various stages such as the marinating chicken, the simmering sauce, and the final plated dish. A video tutorial displaying the cooking process would also engage viewers further and enhance usability.
Conclusion
There you have it! A detailed and easy recipe for Butter Chicken that is sure to impress family and friends alike. The creamy, mildly spiced sauce paired with tender chicken will readily become a favorite at your dinner table. Donโt forget to explore variations and customizations that suit your dietary needs or personal preferences.
We encourage you to give this Easy Butter Chicken recipe a try! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe or share your delicious version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!
>