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butter chicken

Comforting homemade butter chicken on white plate

Butter chicken is a rich and creamy North Indian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and butter sauce, perfect for pairing with naan or rice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
  2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add tomato puree, garam masala, cumin, chili powder, turmeric, salt, and sugar. Cook the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add chicken pieces to the sauce, cover, and cook on low heat for 15 minutes until chicken is tender.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and remaining butter; simmer for another 5 minutes.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.

Notes

For a smoky flavor, char the chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce or add a pinch of smoked paprika.