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Easy Butter Chicken

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A quick and flavorful butter chicken recipe using chicken thighs, yogurt marinade, and a creamy tomato sauce, perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for marinade)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder (in the marinade)
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (marinade)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder (additional for the sauce)
  • ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Naan bread, for serving
  • Steamed rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Toss until coated. Let sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until browned on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate.
  3. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and remaining tablespoon of oil if needed. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
  4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce. Stir in sugar, salt, and black pepper. Add the remaining curry powder. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Season and Simmer: Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Simmer on low for 10 to 12 minutes, or until chicken is tender.
  6. Finish with Butter: Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add cayenne pepper if using. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is silky. Add garam masala and adjust salt or sugar as needed.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately with naan and steamed rice.

Notes

Greek yogurt can be swapped with plain yogurt. For a lighter option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/homemade-butter-chicken-recipe-3/