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Butter Chicken

A rich and creamy butter chicken dish that you can make at home in under an hour, perfect for the whole family.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

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
For Cooking
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter (divided) 2 tablespoons for cooking, 1 tablespoon to finish
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
For the Sauce
  • 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)
For Serving
  • N/A pieces Naan bread
  • N/A cups Steamed rice

Method
 

Marinating the Chicken
  1. In a bowl, mix the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce Base
  1. In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and diced onion; sauté until translucent.
Building the Sauce
  1. Pour in the tomato sauce, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well.
Seasoning and Simmering
  1. Add the heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Return the chicken to the pan. Adjust seasoning and simmer for 10 minutes.
Finishing Touches
  1. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted and combined.
Serving
  1. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

Notes

Chicken thighs work best for juiciness. Adjust spice levels to preference. Don't rush the simmer to meld flavors. Fresh herbs enhance the dish's flavor.