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Classic Butter Chicken Recipe

Classic Butter Chicken Recipe
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5.3 from 28 reviews

This Classic Butter Chicken recipe is a creamy and flavorful dish that is sure to impress. Tender marinated chicken in a rich tomato cream sauce, spiced to perfection, and garnished with fresh cilantro. It’s a true crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the chicken marinade:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp chili powder or paprika
  • ½ tsp salt

For the sauce:

  • 3 tbsp butter (divided)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1½ tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder or paprika
  • 1 cup tomato puree (or canned crushed tomatoes, blended smooth)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup water or chicken stock
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken

    In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken, coat well, cover, and marinate at least 1 hour (overnight is best).

  2. Cook the chicken

    In a large skillet or pan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and sear until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

  3. Make the sauce

    In the same pan, melt another 1 tbsp butter. Add onions and sauté until golden. Stir in garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, and chili powder. Cook 1 minute. Add tomato puree, stir, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened and deepened in color.

  4. Finish the curry

    Add cream, water/stock, and salt to taste. Return chicken to the pan. Simmer 15-20 minutes until chicken is tender and cooked through.

  5. Add final richness

    Stir in the last 1 tbsp butter before serving. Garnish with cilantro or parsley. Enjoy!

Notes

  • This dish can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  • Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.
  • For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk.

Nutrition

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