Indian Butter Chicken

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Indian Butter Chicken—a globally loved dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious tomato-based sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe brings authentic Indian cuisine to your table with ease.

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Reasons to Love This Butter Chicken Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Most are pantry staples or easily accessible.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A versatile dish enjoyed by both kids and adults.
• Perfect Pairing: Complements basmati rice or naan beautifully.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Marinade: A mix of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne, paprika, salt, and pepper).
• Sauce Base: Butter, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato puree, and heavy cream.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh cilantro.
• Sides: Basmati rice or naan bread.

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Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi) for a more authentic flavor.
• Use pre-cooked tandoori chicken if available, to save time.
• Swap chicken with paneer for a vegetarian alternative.

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Tools You’ll Need

• A large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls for marination
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine yogurt, lemon juice, and spices in a bowl. Add chicken and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet. Cook the marinated chicken until browned and fully cooked. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Melt the remaining butter in the same skillet.
   • Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and ginger. Cook until fragrant.
   • Stir in tomato puree and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Finish the Dish:
   • Add heavy cream and simmer until the sauce thickens.
   • Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
5. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and pair with basmati rice or naan.

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What to Serve with Butter Chicken

• Steamed basmati rice
• Garlic naan or plain naan
• A side of cucumber raita or fresh salad

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How to Store Butter Chicken

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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Can I Freeze Butter Chicken?

Yes! Place cooled butter chicken in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Absolutely, though thighs tend to remain juicier during cooking.

Q: Can I make it less spicy?
A: Reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

Resources

Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Cooking Tips for Indian Curries

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Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 30g

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Conclusion

This Indian Butter Chicken recipe delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and aromatic flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying Indian cuisine for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it with loved ones for a comforting and satisfying meal!

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