Butter Chicken
A delightful dish of tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy, and spicy sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 1 lbs Chicken Thighs Can swap with skinless boneless chicken breasts.
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to taste.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder Can substitute with fresh minced garlic.
- 1 tsp Sweet Paprika Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- 1 tbsp Curry Powder Explore different varieties for unique flavors.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to suit your heat preference.
- 1 tsp Garam Masala Curry powder can be a substitute.
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional, adjust according to spice tolerance.
- 1 tsp Sugar Consider honey or maple syrup as alternatives.
Liquids/Dairy
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt Substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free.
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Use oils with high smoke points.
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Use light coconut milk for lighter cooking.
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce Canned crushed tomatoes work well.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 2 cloves Garlic Finely minced.
- 1 medium Onion Yellow or white, diced.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley Optional, for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by mixing chicken pieces with yogurt, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and curry powder in a bowl. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking for 5-6 minutes until browned and almost cooked through.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, sugar, black pepper, garam masala, and cayenne if using. Stir gently and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
Notes
Enhance flavor by adding a squeeze of lemon before serving. Customize spice levels by adjusting cayenne or adding vegetables like bell peppers. Serve with a simple cucumber salad for freshness.