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Butter Chicken

A beloved Indian dish featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with bold spices, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Prep Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade

  • 1 cup yogurt Preferably plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder Adjust to heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pound chicken thighs Boneless or bone-in, cut into pieces

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing
  • 1 large onion Chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced
  • 1 inch ginger Grated
  • 1 cup tomato purée
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro For garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt until well combined.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.

Cooking

  • In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  • Pour in the tomato purée, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, mixing until well incorporated. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Feel free to adjust the chili powder to match your heat preference. Using fresh spices and ingredients will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Keyword Authentic Recipe, Butter Chicken, Comfort Food, Indian Cuisine, Murgh Makhani