Rich, velvety, gently spiced and luxuriously creamy butter chicken dish.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Indian
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
2 tablespoons oil
Salt to taste
Marinade:
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon paprika or mild chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 cup tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Add chicken, mix well, and marinate at least 30 minutes (overnight for best flavor).
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken until lightly golden (it doesn’t need to cook through). Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, melt butter. Add onion and cook until soft and lightly golden.
Add garlic, ginger, garam masala, paprika, and coriander. Sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in tomato puree and simmer 8–10 minutes until thick, rich, and slightly glossy.
Stir in cream and sugar. Reduce heat to low.
Return chicken to the sauce and simmer gently 5–7 minutes until tender and coated in creamy sauce.
Taste and adjust salt. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.