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Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe for Cozy Nights

This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe features tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce, perfect for cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken thighs Use thighs for juiciness; breasts can substitute but require careful cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to personal taste.
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Tenderizes chicken; substitute with dairy-free yogurt for vegan option.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness; coconut oil can replace for dairy-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons Oil Any neutral oil works.
  • 1 medium Onion Can replace with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Freshly chopped for more intense flavor.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Crushed tomatoes can be used for chunkier texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity of tomatoes; honey can be an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust depending on spice preference.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Optional; tailor to desired spiciness.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream can be a substitute for vegan option.
  • 1 tablespoon Garam Masala Mix cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can be used for added depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Curry Powder Garam masala can substitute for a different profile.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley/Cilantro For garnish, adding a fresh flavor contrast.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Toss until well-coated and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add half of the butter and a splash of oil. Sear the marinated chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown, then set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter before tossing in chopped onions. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic for an additional minute.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne into the onion mixture. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes to thicken.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, sprinkle in the garam masala, and simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes.
  7. Adjust seasoning before serving. Plate with sauce on top, garnish with parsley or cilantro, and serve with naan or rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juiciness, and marinate longer for deeper flavor.

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