Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe is a dish that brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine right to your table. With tender chicken marinated in spices and cooked in a luscious creamy sauce, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The blend of spices and the smooth texture makes it a standout dish loved by many.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 60 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of yogurt, spices, and cream creates a deep, satisfying flavor that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, naan, or even over pasta for a unique twist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its mild heat and creamy texture, it’s sure to please both spice lovers and those who prefer milder dishes.
- Make Ahead Option: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor when you’re ready to cook.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Large skillet or wok
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: This is essential for marinating the chicken thoroughly, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld.
- Chef’s knife: A good knife makes cutting the chicken quick and safe.
- Large skillet or wok: A wide cooking surface helps achieve even cooking and allows space for stirring.
Ingredients
Here are all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe:
Chicken and Marinade
- 2-3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (fat trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 Tbsp ginger (minced)
- 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp oil (vegetable, canola or avocado)
- 2 Tbsp ghee (or butter)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 14 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 cup heavy cream (or full fat coconut milk)
- 1/2 tsp dried fenugreek (or crushed kasoori methi)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, red chili powder, and sea salt.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Mix well until all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add marinated chicken pieces in batches if necessary. Cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt ghee over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, garam masala, ground coriander, tomato sauce, red chili powder, cayenne pepper, and sea salt. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir well to coat with sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream (or coconut milk). Mix thoroughly.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Sprinkle dried fenugreek over the dish. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired before serving.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your Creamy Butter Chicken! Serve it hot with rice or naan for a true feast.
How to Serve Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Serving creamy butter chicken is all about pairing it with the right accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Basmati Rice
- Basmati rice is a classic choice that soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly, providing a fragrant and fluffy base for the dish.
With Naan Bread
- Soft naan is ideal for scooping up the buttery sauce. You can enjoy it warm and even make it more flavorful by brushing it with garlic butter.
With Roti or Paratha
- Whole wheat roti or flaky paratha adds a nice texture and complements the spices in butter chicken while offering a healthier option.
Topped with Fresh Cilantro
- Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the creaminess of the dish beautifully.
With Yogurt Sauce
- A refreshing cucumber raita made with yogurt helps cool down the spice, making each bite more enjoyable.
How to Perfect Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
To achieve the best results with your creamy butter chicken recipe, consider these helpful tips.
Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least an hour enhances its tenderness and infuses flavor.
Use Ghee: Cooking with ghee instead of regular butter gives a richer taste and authentic Indian flavor to your dish.
Balance Spice Levels: Adjust chili powder and cayenne pepper according to your heat preference; start small if you’re unsure!
Simmer Slowly: Letting the sauce simmer allows flavors to meld together, creating a deeper taste experience.
Cream Consistency: Use heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk to ensure a creamy and luscious sauce that clings well to the chicken.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your creamy butter chicken enhances the overall meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Jeera Rice: Cumin-flavored basmati rice that complements the spices in butter chicken beautifully.
- Aloo Gobi: A spiced potato and cauliflower dish that adds texture and flavor contrast.
- Chickpea Salad: A refreshing salad made with chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and lemon dressing provides brightness.
- Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney offers a delightful contrast to savory butter chicken.
- Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach curry paired with paneer adds another layer of richness to your meal.
- Papadum: Crispy lentil crackers are perfect for snacking alongside your main dish.
- Mixed Vegetable Curry: A medley of seasonal vegetables cooked in spices creates a colorful and nutritious side.
- Cucumber Salad: Fresh cucumbers tossed in yogurt dressing provide a crisp, cooling effect against spicy flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a creamy butter chicken recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to dry meat. Allow at least 30 minutes for the yogurt and spices to infuse flavor.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Aim for tender pieces by checking doneness around 15-20 minutes.
- Ignoring Spice Measurements: Using incorrect amounts of spices can ruin the dish’s balance. Stick to the recommended measurements for best results.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality tomatoes or cream can diminish flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for a richer taste.
- Rushing the Cooking Process: Trying to speed up cooking might lead to uneven flavor development. Take your time to let the sauce simmer properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months.
Reheating Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a creamy butter chicken recipe.
What is the best type of chicken for this recipe?
Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor. They stay juicy during cooking, enhancing the dish.
Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk works wonderfully and adds a unique flavor to your creamy butter chicken recipe.
How spicy is this butter chicken?
The spiciness can be adjusted by modifying chili powder amounts. For milder flavors, reduce red chili powder and cayenne pepper.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance or prepare the entire dish ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This creamy butter chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. Give it a try for a cozy dinner that will surely impress your family and friends!
Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this authentic Butter Chicken Recipe, a beloved classic of Indian cuisine. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, simmered to perfection in a luscious tomato-based sauce enriched with cream. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare—ready in just 60 minutes. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 2-3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 Tbsp ginger (minced)
- 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 Tbsp oil (vegetable, canola or avocado)
- 2 Tbsp ghee (or butter)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 14 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 cup heavy cream (or full fat coconut milk)
- 1/2 tsp dried fenugreek (or crushed kasoori methi)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet until golden brown and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce by sautéing garlic and adding spices, followed by tomato sauce and cream.
- Combine the chicken with the sauce and let it simmer.
- Serve hot with rice or naan, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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