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Homemade Butter Chicken

A fragrant and comforting butter chicken recipe that combines tender chicken pieces with rich spices and creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Spices
  • 500 g Chicken thighs or breasts Thighs offer juicy tenderness, but breasts work well if you prefer lean meat.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1 tsp Ground turmeric Gives that beautiful golden hue and a mild, earthy flavor.
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin Adds warmth and depth.
  • 1 tsp Ground coriander Provides a fresh, citrusy note.
  • 1 inch Ginger (grated) Freshness elevates the dish; you can substitute with powder if necessary.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic infuses incredible depth; use pre-minced if short on time.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 cup Tomato puree For a thick and rich sauce; you can substitute with crushed tomatoes if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream Makes the sauce creamy and indulgent; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Butter The secret to the "butter" taste; olive oil works too.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice Brightens up the flavors; optional but recommended.
Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro Adds a splash of color and freshness at the end.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by marinating the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep the rest.
Cooking
  1. Sauté the spices: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
  2. Add the tomato puree: Pour in the tomato puree, stirring well to coat the chicken. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the cream: Gently mix in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Finish with lemon juice: Sprinkle the lemon juice for a refreshing lift, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt if needed.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce from drying out. This recipe is also freezable for up to two months.