Butter chicken is a delicious and popular dish that comes from India. This creamy, flavorful recipe has won the hearts of many. It combines tender chicken pieces in a rich tomato sauce, making every bite delightful. Butter chicken is often enjoyed with rice or naan, a type of bread. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any special occasion. You can easily make it at home with just a few ingredients. Whether you are new to cooking or an expert, this recipe is simple and rewarding. Let’s explore why you should make butter chicken and how to prepare it.
Why Make This Recipe
Butter chicken is not just tasty; it also brings comfort and warmth to your meals. The balance of spices and creaminess makes it a real treat. You can enjoy it with friends and family, making it a great choice for sharing. Moreover, this recipe is adaptable, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your preference. When you cook it at home, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and healthy dish. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic Indian dish.
How to Make Butter Chicken
Ingredients
1 lb chicken, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink.
- Add the tomato puree, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and butter, heating through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
How to Serve Butter Chicken
Serve butter chicken hot, accompanied by fluffy rice or soft naan. This dish is great for soaking up the sauce, enhancing the flavors of the meal. You can also add a side of vegetable curry or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.
How to Store Butter Chicken
Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, reheat in a pan or microwave until hot throughout.
Tips to Make Butter Chicken
Use fresh spices for the best flavor. You can adjust the spices to make it milder or spicier. For a healthier version, you can substitute heavy cream with yogurt. Ensure not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
Variations
You can try adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a splash of lemon juice. For a vegan option, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use coconut cream instead.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure it is fully cooked before adding it to the sauce.
2. How spicy is butter chicken?
Butter chicken is generally mild, but you can add more spices for extra heat if you like.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace butter and cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
4. What should I serve with butter chicken?
It is best served with rice, naan, or any flatbread. You can also pair it with a salad.
5. How long does it take to make butter chicken?
The entire cooking process takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
Butter Chicken
A creamy and flavorful Indian dish featuring tender chicken in a rich tomato sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink.
- Add the tomato puree, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and butter, heating through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
Use fresh spices for the best flavor. Adjust spices to taste for milder or spicier options.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
