Name: Creamy Butter Chicken: 10 Irresistible Secrets Revealed
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces; 0.75 cup plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp ginger paste; 1 tbsp garlic paste; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1.5 tsp ground cumin; 1.5 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garam masala; Salt to taste; 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided); 1 tbsp oil (optional); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1.5 tbsp garlic paste; 1 tbsp ginger paste; 1.5 tsp ground cumin; 1.5 tsp paprika; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garam masala; 1.5 cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes; 1 tbsp sugar (optional); 0.5 cup heavy cream; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy Butter Chicken has been my go-to comfort dish for years. This Indian classic is a delightful combination of tender chicken and a rich, spiced tomato-butter sauce. The moment I start cooking, the mouthwatering aroma fills my kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of this easy Butter Chicken recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butter Chicken

This recipe for Creamy Butter Chicken is not just about flavor; it’s about convenience too. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore it:

Quick to prepare: In just 50 minutes, you get a delicious meal.
Rich flavors: The combination of spices and cream creates a mouthwatering sauce.
Versatile: Pair it with naan or rice for a complete meal.
Healthy alternatives: Easily switch to lean chicken for a healthier option.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Authentic taste: Experience the essence of Indian cuisine right at home.

With its creamy Indian curry texture and a hint of spice, this dish becomes an instant favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients for Creamy Butter Chicken

Gather these items:

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
0.75 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger paste
1 tbsp garlic paste
1 tsp turmeric powder
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1.5 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
1 tbsp oil (optional)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1.5 tbsp garlic paste
1 tbsp ginger paste
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1.5 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
1.5 cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp sugar (optional)
0.5 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and spices. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Heat butter and oil in a pan. Sear the chicken in batches until browned. Set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan, sauté onions until golden. Add garlic and ginger paste and cook until fragrant.
Step 4: Add cumin, paprika, chili powder, and garam masala. Stir to bloom the spices.
Step 5: Add tomato puree and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thick and rich.
Step 6: Blend the sauce for a smooth texture using an immersion or countertop blender.
Step 7: Return sauce to pan and stir in cream, butter, and sugar. Simmer for a few minutes.
Step 8: Add chicken back into the sauce and simmer on low until cooked through and tender.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Butter Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Serve with naan or basmati rice for best results.
Adjust spices to your taste preference.
Allow marination for more flavor.
For a spicy creamy Butter Chicken, add more chili powder.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Butter Chicken

Pair this dish with:

Naan bread for dipping in the rich Butter Chicken sauce.
Basmati rice to soak up the delicious flavors.
Steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Butter Chicken

To store, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. This can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Butter Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Butter Chicken?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken long enough to absorb the flavors of the yogurt and spices, creating a tender and flavorful protein for your dish.

Can I make Creamy Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together even better. Just reheat and serve when ready.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Butter Chicken?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear. Also, monitor the heat to prevent the sauce from burning.

Variations of Creamy Butter Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Use paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
Add spinach to create a Creamy Spinach Butter Chicken.
For a traditional Indian Butter Chicken experience, include cashew paste in the sauce for added richness.
Try coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter version.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken. If you’re interested in the health benefits of spices, you can read more here.