Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious tomato and cream sauce. This recipe allows for flexibility in spices, making it a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste. The marination process ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the cooking method brings out the aromatic spices and herbs, creating a delightful meal.

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Ingredients
Main Ingredients
fresh cream500mL- Chicken pieces1
Tomato paste1- grated tomatoes or a can of diced tomatoes3
Butter or margarine1
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
401.3kcal (20.06%)
Protein
3.4g (6.76%)
Carbs
5.9g (2.14%)
Sugars
5.9g (11.76%)
Healthy Fat
12.2g
Unhealthy Fat
27.9g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Butter Chicken
Preparation
- Step 1
Season the chicken with salt, curry powder, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can use any spices you want.
- Step 2
Add the chicken to a bowl and add a quarter cup of fresh cream. You can use plain yogurt as well.
- Step 3
Massage the chicken, cover it, and let it rest in the fridge for about an hour. This will help tenderize the chicken.
Cooking
- Step 1
After an hour, heat up a pan with oil on high heat, then brown the chicken on both sides until it is browned and set it aside.
- Step 2
In a large pot, add a bit of oil and butter and heat up on medium heat.
- Step 3
When the butter has melted, add chopped onions and garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes.
- Step 4
Add the spices and herbs. You can use any you want.
- Step 5
Cook until the spices and herbs are fragrant, about two minutes.
- Step 6
Add a tablespoon of tomato paste, mix, then add the tomatoes and mix together. Let this cook for about 5 minutes.
- Step 7
Add about two cups of water.
- Step 8
Add the browned chicken and some bay leaves.
- Step 9
Cover and let this cook for 30 minutes on medium-low heat.
- Step 10
After 30 minutes, add a cup of fresh cream and cook an additional 5 to 8 minutes. Taste, then season with salt and pepper.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
401.3kcal (20.06%)
Protein
3.4g (6.76%)
Carbs
5.9g (2.14%)
Sugars
5.9g (11.76%)
Healthy Fat
12.2g
Unhealthy Fat
27.9g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of butter.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preference.
Letting the chicken marinate longer will enhance the flavor.
FAQS
Can I use yogurt instead of cream for marination?
Yes, you can use plain yogurt as an alternative to cream for marinating the chicken.
What can I use instead of fresh cream?
You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the spice level.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, butter chicken can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs well with naan, rice, or roti.
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