Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

This easy butter chicken recipe delivers all the rich, creamy flavors you love from your favorite Indian restaurant, but made right in your own kitchen! The tender, juicy chicken is simmered in a luscious tomato-cream sauce that's perfectly spiced and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tsp minced fresh ginger
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger, garlic, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, and salt.
2. Add chicken pieces and mix well to coat evenly.
3. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Remove chicken from marinade and cook in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per batch.
3. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened and golden, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Stir in heavy cream and sugar.
2. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and additional spices as needed.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious butter chicken over:

• Basmati rice - The classic pairing that soaks up all that creamy sauce
• Naan bread - Perfect for scooping up every last bit
• Jasmine rice - A fragrant alternative to basmati
• Cauliflower rice - For a low-carb option

Pro Tips

Chef's Secret: For extra rich flavor, add a tablespoon of butter at the very end of cooking. This gives the sauce that glossy, restaurant-quality finish!

• Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
• Spice level: Start with less cayenne and add more to taste. You can always add heat, but you can't take it away!
• Chicken choice: Thighs stay more tender than breasts, but both work great.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed

This easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating your family to something special. The combination of tender chicken and creamy, aromatic sauce will have everyone asking for seconds!