Description
A cozy and rich Butter Chicken recipe that brings the creamy signature sauce and tender chicken straight from the heart of India to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (Breasts can also be used, but thighs are recommended for juiciness.)
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Full fat if possible.)
- 2 tsp fresh ginger (Grated or minced.)
- 2 tsp fresh garlic (Grated or minced.)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (Or use tomato purée.)
- 2 tbsp butter (Essential for flavor.)
- 1 cup heavy cream (For a silky finish.)
- 1 tsp garam masala (Add more if desired.)
- 1 tsp cumin (Ground.)
- 1 tsp coriander (Ground.)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder (Kashmiri chili is preferred.)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fenugreek leaves (Optional, for flavor.)
- 1 tsp sugar or honey (Optional, for balancing acidity.)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (To taste.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Marinate the chicken by mixing yogurt, ginger, garlic, salt, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a bit of garam masala.
- Toss in the chicken and coat well. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes, but 4 to 12 hours is even better.
Cooking the Chicken
- Broil, grill, or sear the marinated chicken in a hot skillet with a little oil until it gets some color.
Building the Sauce
- In a pan, melt the butter and add ginger and garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in tomato paste for a minute, then add crushed tomatoes or purée, salt, chili powder, and a bit of garam masala.
- Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until it thickens and smells sweet.
Making it Smooth
- Blend the sauce carefully if you want a super smooth texture and return it to the pan.
Finishing the Dish
- Add the chicken to the sauce and simmer gently until cooked through, about 6 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, crushed kasuri methi if using, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes
Make ahead by marinating the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. For best flavor, do not rush the tomato simmer and always taste at the end to adjust seasonings.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Indian