Butter Chicken
This quick and easy version of butter chicken features creamy and spiced flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder
- 0.25 cup freshly chopped parsley optional, for garnish
To Serve
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and diced onion. Cook until onions are soft and garlic is fragrant.
Build the Sauce
- Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well and bring to a simmer.
Season and Simmer
- Add heavy cream to the sauce along with garam masala and curry powder. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
Finish with Butter
- Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce. Mix well and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir until melted.
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, make sure to marinate the chicken. Adjust spices to taste, and for a richer sauce, use full-fat cream. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also enhance the flavor.