Butter Chicken

Enjoy tender chicken thighs in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with this classic Butter Chicken recipe. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply crave comforting flavors. With its aromatic spices and smooth texture, Butter Chicken offers a delightful experience for your taste buds and is sure to impress anyone you serve it to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates a rich and complex flavor profile that elevates this dish.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this Butter Chicken is easy enough for beginner cooks to master.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, naan, or even as a filling for wraps – the possibilities are endless!
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy texture and mild spices appeal to both adults and kids alike, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Butter Chicken effectively, having the right tools at hand will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s a list of essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: These help evenly distribute heat when cooking the chicken and simmering the sauce.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken with yogurt and spices without making a mess.

Ingredients

Enjoy tender chicken thighs in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with this classic Butter Chicken recipe.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Marinate the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons garam masala for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Brown the chicken in 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil until browned on both sides, about 6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions and Spices

Melt butter over medium heat in your large skillet. Cook the onions until they are tender. Add ginger, garlic, cumin, garam masala, coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and cinnamon stick. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken broth to the pan along with browned chicken pieces, crushed tomatoes, and sugar. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 5: Stir in Cream

Stir in heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. Before serving, discard the cinnamon stick to ensure a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Butter Chicken over steamed rice or with warm naan bread!

How to Serve Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful ways to serve this creamy chicken curry for an authentic experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed basmati rice complements the rich sauce and absorbs the flavors perfectly.

With Naan Bread

• Soft naan is excellent for scooping up the buttery sauce, making each bite enjoyable.

With Roti or Chapati

• Whole wheat roti or chapati adds a wholesome touch and balances the creaminess of the dish.

Garnished with Fresh Cilantro

• A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top enhances both flavor and presentation, adding a pop of color.

With Yogurt Sauce

• A side of cooling yogurt sauce can balance the spices and add a refreshing element to the meal.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Indian pickles provide a tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile of Butter Chicken.

How to Perfect Butter Chicken

To make your Butter Chicken truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken in yogurt and spices overnight. This helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with taste.

• Use Bone-In Thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs yield juicier results compared to boneless. They also add more flavor to the dish.

• Cook Slowly: Simmering the sauce slowly allows flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step for the best outcome.

• Balance Spices: Adjust spices according to your taste. If you prefer less heat, reduce chili powder or add sugar to balance it out.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the taste significantly. Opt for good-quality tomatoes, spices, and cream for richer flavors.

• Finish with Cream: Adding heavy cream at the end ensures a luscious texture while keeping it light enough to enjoy.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Chicken

Serving Butter Chicken with complementary side dishes elevates your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with this rich curry.

1. Jeera Rice: Flavored with cumin seeds, this fragrant rice makes an ideal base for soaking up sauces.

2. Aloo Gobi: A classic potato and cauliflower dish seasoned with turmeric and spices. It adds a hearty touch alongside Butter Chicken.

3. Palak Paneer: Creamy spinach with cheese cubes provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

4. Chickpea Salad: A fresh salad featuring chickpeas, tomatoes, and cucumber adds brightness to your plate.

5. Raita: A yogurt-based condiment mixed with cucumber or mint helps cool down any spices from the curry.

6. Samosas: These crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes make for a delicious appetizer alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Butter Chicken, avoiding common mistakes is essential for achieving rich flavors and tender chicken.

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial as it helps infuse flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 30 minutes or overnight for the best results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking can make your chicken dry. Cook it just until browned, then simmer in the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

• Not Measuring Spices Accurately: Spices are key in Butter Chicken. Use measuring spoons to ensure you add the right amounts of cumin, garam masala, and other spices for balanced flavor.

• Ignoring the Cream Addition: Adding heavy cream too early can lead to a less creamy texture. Stir it in during the final cooking stage to achieve that luscious consistency Butter Chicken is known for.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Quality matters! Opt for fresh spices and good-quality tomatoes. They significantly impact the flavor profile of your Butter Chicken.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Butter Chicken

• Place Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer Butter Chicken to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. It’s known for its rich flavor and tender texture.

Can I make Butter Chicken spicy?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier version of Butter Chicken, simply increase the amount of chili powder or add chopped green chilies while cooking.

How do I serve Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! While chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful, boneless chicken breasts can be used if preferred. Just be cautious not to overcook them.

Is there a vegetarian version of Butter Chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with paneer or cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian take on this classic recipe while keeping similar flavors intact.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Chicken recipe offers an irresistible blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!