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Homemade Butter Chicken

Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken That Warms the Soul

Homemade Butter Chicken is a comforting, creamy dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 530

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 lb Chicken Thighs Juicier and more flavorful than chicken breast.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
  • 1 tsp Sweet Paprika Provides sweetness and color.
  • 1 tbsp Curry Powder Adjust based on your preferred spice level.
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free options.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Can be replaced with ghee or canola oil.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Unsalted butter is recommended.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for intense flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion Diced for sweetness.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Crushed tomatoes can be used for texture.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Adjust according to your taste.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Modify based on spice tolerance.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream can replace for a lighter option.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional; adjust for extra heat.
  • 1 tbsp Garam Masala Integrates essential warm spices for authenticity.
For Serving
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Parsley Optional garnish.
  • 4 pieces Naan Bread Ideal for scooping up the sauce.
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice Complements the dish perfectly.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once shimmering, add the marinated chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium, add butter, and let melt. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, mix well, and simmer for 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and add cayenne pepper if desired. Stir in garam masala and black pepper, simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve with naan and steamed rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 530kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 28gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes for deep flavor penetration. Avoid overcrowding the skillet for even cooking.

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