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Creamy Classic Butter Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 91 reviews

Classic Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a buttery tomato-based sauce spiced with aromatic ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and an array of traditional spices. This comforting recipe balances tangy tomato, smooth cream, and bold Indian flavors for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (pureed tomatoes or canned tomato sauce)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Add the Spices: Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook the spices with the onion mixture for 1–2 minutes to release their aromas.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly with the spiced butter mixture. Cook until the chicken turns opaque and begins to brown slightly, about 5–8 minutes.
  5. Add the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken.
  6. Finish with Cream: Slowly stir in the heavy cream to the pan. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy. Adjust salt to taste.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

  • For a smoother sauce, you can puree the tomato sauce before cooking.
  • Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
  • Using chicken thighs will yield a more tender and flavorful dish compared to chicken breasts.
  • Butter chicken sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
  • Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.

Keywords: Butter Chicken, Indian Butter Chicken, Chicken Curry, Indian Cuisine, Creamy Chicken Curry

Find it online: https://platedandproud.com/creamy-classic-butter-chicken-recipe/