Ever had a creamy dish that makes your taste buds dance with joy?
The Ultimate Authentic Butter Chicken does just that! Rich, flavorful, and utterly decadent, this recipe combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce that’s perfect for spooning over naan or rice. What makes it special? It’s quick, creamy, and can be made in just one pan! You and your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen, but we’ll keep that our little secret. 😉
Why make this recipe
There are a million reasons to whip up this buttery delight! Here are just a few to get you drooling:
- Easy Cleanup: Who wants to scrub a mountain of dishes? Not you! One pan means less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will have a hard time resisting this creamy goodness. It’s comforting and familiar, yet packed with flavor.
- Quick and Simple: Perfect for weeknight dinners or surprise guests, this recipe won’t steal hours of your precious time.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Naan or rice for serving
Directions
- Marinate chicken pieces in yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the marinated chicken and cook until no longer pink.
- Add pureed tomatoes and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.
How to make Ultimate Authentic Butter Chicken (Overview)
Making this butter chicken is super straightforward! Start by marinating your chicken in a spiced yogurt mix — that’s where all the flavor magic happens. While it tingles in the fridge, sauté some onions until they sparkle with sweetness. Then, cook your chicken until it’s juicy, toss in those silky pureed tomatoes, and let it simmer into a dream. Pro tip: Don’t skip marinating — it makes all the difference!
How to serve Ultimate Authentic Butter Chicken
Serve your butter chicken warm, with steamed naan or fluffy rice that soaks up all that heavenly sauce. Picture a vibrant orange dish that just screams comfort food — garnished with bright green cilantro for that pop of color. And let’s not forget the aroma wafting through the house, luring everyone to the dinner table like magic! 🍽️
How to store Ultimate Authentic Butter Chicken
You can keep this creamy creation in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready for round two, simply heat it on the stove or in the microwave — it’ll warm up beautifully! You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, which is perfect for busy nights when you need a quick meal.
Tips to make Ultimate Authentic Butter Chicken
- Marinating Time: Let it marinate for a few hours if you can. The longer, the better!
- Yogurt Secrets: Use Greek yogurt for an even creamier texture.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the chili powder to make it as spicy as you like (or as your guests can handle!).
- Texture Matters: Consider blending the onions for an even smoother sauce.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Want to make a twist on this classic? Try it with tofu for a vegan option, or add some spinach for a nutrient boost! You can also swap chicken for lamb or paneer if you’re in the mood for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just reheat and serve when you’re ready!What if I don’t have garam masala?
A mix of cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon works in a pinch!How do I store leftovers?
Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Ultimate Authentic Butter Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt Greek yogurt can be used for a creamier texture.
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to taste for desired spiciness.
- Salt to taste Salt
For the Sauce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For Garnish and Serving
- Fresh cilantro Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Naan or rice Naan or rice for serving These sides are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
- Marinate chicken pieces in yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking the Dish
- In a large skillet, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the marinated chicken and cook until no longer pink.
- Add pureed tomatoes and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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