Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken has always held a special place in my heart, not just because it’s a culinary delight, but because it evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a friend’s house; the creamy sauce was rich and comforting, wrapping the tender chicken in a warm embrace. It was love at first bite! Since then, I’ve experimented with countless recipes, but nothing beats the simplicity and flavor of my go-to Butter Chicken recipe. Each time I prepare this dish, I’m transported back to those warm, laughter-filled evenings, making it feel like more than just a meal. The enticing aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers is irresistible, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Butter Chicken is perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike, making it a versatile dish for any season. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of creating this delightful dish in your own kitchen!

Key Ingredients for Butter Chicken

In crafting the perfect Butter Chicken, each ingredient plays a vital role, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The key players in this dish include chicken thighs for their tenderness, yogurt that tenderizes the meat, and cream that enriches the sauce. Each component complements the others, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.

• ½ cup yogurt: Acts as a marinade that helps tenderize the chicken and adds a subtle tang to the dish.
• 1 Tablespoon minced ginger: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic base for the marinade.
• 1 Tablespoon garam masala: A blend of spices that brings warmth and complexity to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric: Imparts a beautiful golden hue and adds a subtle earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Contributes a nutty, warm flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder: You can adjust this to your spice preference, adding heat when desired.
• 800 grams chicken thighs (skinless boneless): The star of the dish, these thighs remain juicy and flavorful.
• 1 onion, grated: Adds sweetness and body to the sauce.
• 1 carrot, grated: Provides natural sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 3 Tablespoons butter or ghee: Adds richness and a lovely buttery flavor.
• 1 cup tomato puree: Forms the base of the sauce with its rich flavor.
• 1 cup cream: Makes the sauce rich and silky smooth.
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato and adds depth to the sauce.

Cooking Method for Butter Chicken

Creating Butter Chicken is a delightful journey that anyone can embark on. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the process of making this comforting meal!

1. Start by marinating the chicken. If you have the time, it’s ideal to marinate it overnight. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for just 20 minutes will still impart great flavor. In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger, garlic, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. This aromatic mixture is where the magic begins!
2. Next, dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and coat them in the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-covered for maximum flavor. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare your aromatics. Grate the onion and carrot. These will add sweetness and depth to your sauce.
4. Heat the butter or ghee in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the grated onion and carrot. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
5. Now it’s time to add the marinated chicken. Toss it into the pan and cook until it’s sealed and golden brown. Don’t worry if some of the marinade sticks to the chicken; it’ll add more flavor later!
6. Once the chicken is browned, add the remaining marinade mixture along with the tomato puree, cream, and brown sugar. Stir everything together until well combined.
7. Reduce the heat to low, allowing the curry to simmer gently. This is where the flavors meld together beautifully. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and becoming incredibly aromatic!
8. After simmering, taste your curry and season it with salt to your preference. This is a crucial step to enhance the flavors.
9. Serve your delicious Butter Chicken over steamed basmati rice. The fluffy rice will soak up the rich sauce, creating the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Tips and Tricks about Butter Chicken

Creating the perfect Butter Chicken is an art, and with these tips, you’ll become a pro in no time. Here’s how to take your dish to the next level:

• Storage: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container. They will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slowly on the stove for optimal texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze Butter Chicken for up to three months! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will be a convenient meal option for busy days.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with naan, poppadoms, or steamed basmati rice. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to match your heat preference. Start with less and add more if needed to customize the dish perfectly for your taste.
• Herb Garnish: Fresh cilantro or coriander makes an excellent garnish, adding a burst of color and flavor. Present it beautifully on the table!
• Ingredient Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and texture in your Butter Chicken.

Serving Ideas for Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can be enhanced with the right sides and presentation. Here’s how to serve it beautifully:

• Accompany with Naan: Serve with warm naan bread to scoop up the delicious sauce. This pairing is loved by many and enhances the experience.
• Steamed Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the rich curry sauce. It’s a must-have side for this dish.
• Fresh Salad: A light cucumber and tomato salad can be a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of Butter Chicken, adding a crunchy texture to the meal.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Consider serving seasonal vegetables on the side. Roasted or sautéed veggies can complement the dish well.
• Special Occasions: Butter Chicken is a wonderful centerpiece for gatherings or festive meals, making it ideal for celebrations.
• Family Style Serving: Serve the Butter Chicken directly from the pot on the table, allowing everyone to help themselves and enjoy the communal experience of sharing a meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Butter Chicken is a beloved dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Your family will thank you, and you might just find a new favorite meal to share with loved ones.

Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Butter Chicken offers a creamy, rich sauce that wraps tender chicken in a flavor-packed embrace. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for any occasion, making it a must-try for your next meal.

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Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup yogurt
• 1 Tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 Tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder This can be increased to ½ a teaspoon or one teaspoon depending on your preference for heat.
• 800 grams chicken thighs (skinless boneless)
• 1 onion (grated)
• 1 carrot (grated)
• 3 Tablespoons butter or ghee
• 1 cup tomato puree 277g
• 1 cup cream
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Cutting Board
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by marinating the chicken. If you have the time, it’s ideal to marinate it overnight. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for just 20 minutes will still impart great flavor. In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger, garlic, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. This aromatic mixture is where the magic begins!
2. Next, dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and coat them in the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-covered for maximum flavor. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare your aromatics. Grate the onion and carrot. These will add sweetness and depth to your sauce.
4. Heat the butter or ghee in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once melted, add the grated onion and carrot. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
5. Now it’s time to add the marinated chicken. Toss it into the pan and cook until it’s sealed and golden brown. Don’t worry if some of the marinade sticks to the chicken; it’ll add more flavor later!
6. Once the chicken is browned, add the remaining marinade mixture along with the tomato puree, cream, and brown sugar. Stir everything together until well combined.
7. Reduce the heat to low, allowing the curry to simmer gently. This is where the flavors meld together beautifully. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and becoming incredibly aromatic!
8. After simmering, taste your curry and season it with salt to your preference. This is a crucial step to enhance the flavors.
9. Serve your delicious Butter Chicken over steamed basmati rice. The fluffy rice will soak up the rich sauce, creating the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Notes

Tip 1: Season at the end with salt

Tip 2: Serve your curry with fun sides, naan, poppadoms, and pickled vegetables such as pickled carrots or pickled cucumbers.

Tip 3: I love a little coriander/cilantro with my curry but this herb can be a bit divisive so have it on the table for people to add as a garnish.

Tip 4: If you would like for your butter chicken sauce to be dairy-free you can substitute this for coconut yogurt or leave it out entirely. The yogurt does help with keeping the chicken tender but is not absolutely necessary.

Tip 5: This can be increased or decreased depending on your love of spice. Your curry will still be full of flavor even if you leave it out.

Tip 6: I prefer chicken thighs in this recipe but these can be substituted for skinless chicken breasts.

Tip 7: This can be substituted for coconut oil or another mild-flavoured oil.

Tip 8: This is sometimes called passata. You can use a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste if you don't have tomato puree.

Tip 9: This can be substituted for coconut cream if you would prefer.

Tip 10: 2-3 garlic cloves minced

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Meet Molly Brooks

I love mixing nostalgic flavors with fun, fresh twists. My goal is to make cooking the best part of your day. I loved making this recipe, and I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home!