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Creamy Butter Chicken

This comforting and flavorful creamy butter chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners and small gatherings, made with simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Skinless boneless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances all the flavors; sea salt yields a natural taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic provides a punchier flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Infuses sweetness and color; swap in smoked paprika for an earthy twist.
  • 1 tablespoon Curry Powder Brings warmth and complexity; garam masala can replace it for different spice notes.
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Creamy base for marinating the chicken; dairy-free yogurt is great for lighter options.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Essential for sautéing; olive or coconut oil can introduce new flavors.
  • 3 tablespoons Butter Adds richness to the sauce; vegan butter serves as a dairy-free substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh flavor booster; increase for a stronger taste.
  • 1 medium Onion Provides sweetness; substitute with shallots for milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Tangy base for the sauce; passata or crushed tomatoes work well too.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity; try honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth; cracked pepper can provide extra bite.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Ensures a rich texture; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional heat boost; adjust to taste or omit for milder palates.
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala Essential for authentic flavor; adds aromatic spices.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Adds freshness; cilantro offers an herbaceous alternative.
  • 4 pieces Naan Bread A traditional accompaniment to soak up the sauce.
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice The perfect complement to the rich dish, adding a comforting base.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces.
  2. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and curry powder.
  3. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and let it brown for 3–4 minutes per side.
  3. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
  5. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and slightly caramelized.
  6. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  7. Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and garam masala.
  8. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes.
  9. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the heavy cream.
  10. Simmer gently for 6–8 minutes, until the sauce coats the chicken.
  11. Stir in fresh parsley and taste for salt.
  12. Serve warm over steamed rice with naan on the side.

Notes

Marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor. To thicken the sauce, simmer uncovered; add cream to counteract spiciness.