Creamy Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, or murgh makhani as it is known in its native land, is a dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Perfectly spiced and decadently creamy, this recipe will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of India without you ever needing to leave your kitchen. With juicy chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious sauce, this Creamy Butter Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why I Love This Recipe
What I adore about this Creamy Butter Chicken is its incredible balance of flavors. The spices meld together beautifully to create a dish that is comforting yet exotic. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Plus, it’s deceptively easy to make, so even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you’ll look like a pro. The creamy sauce can be paired with naan, rice, or even enjoyed alone for a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredient Checklist
To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 28 oz chicken thighs, boneless and skinless or breasts cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 14 oz tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt or to taste
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Tools of the Trade
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following tools:
- Large skillet or frying pan – for cooking the chicken and sauce.
- Wooden spoon – for stirring and ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure your ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping your chicken and vegetables.
- Mixing bowl – for marinating the chicken.
Step-by-Step: Creamy Butter Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with plain yogurt, minced ginger, garlic powder, garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, red chili powder, paprika, and salt. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until aromatic.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is spread out evenly. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle in the ground cumin, garam masala, and paprika. Stir well to combine. Pour in the tomato sauce, followed by red chili powder, and salt. Mix everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and sugar. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce is thickened and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Creamy Butter Chicken is ready, serve it hot over a bed of basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking to make this dish more suitable for a low-carb or keto diet, consider the following alternatives:
- Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb side.
- Omit the sugar or use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol.
- Increase the spinach or other low-carb vegetables to make it even heartier.
Chef’s Rationale
Each ingredient in this Creamy Butter Chicken plays a significant role in developing the overall flavor profile. The yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a tangy note that balances the spices. The mixture of spices creates a warm and inviting aroma, while the heavy cream adds a luxurious texture that makes the dish indulgent. This recipe is a perfect example of how traditional cooking methods can be adapted to suit modern tastes without sacrificing authenticity.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This Creamy Butter Chicken is an excellent dish for meal prep. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Pair it with fresh rice or naan when you’re ready to enjoy it again. The flavors only intensify as it sits, making it even more delightful the next day!
Ask the Chef
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just as well, though they may be slightly less moist than thighs. Just be sure not to overcook them to maintain tenderness.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter version?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter version, though the texture will differ slightly from the original.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this dish spicier?
If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red chili powder or add chopped green chilies during cooking. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Explore More
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that allows you to savor the richness of Indian cuisine in your own home. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a dish that embodies warmth, flavor, and love.
Creamy Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with plain yogurt, minced ginger, garlic powder, garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, red chili powder, paprika, and salt. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until aromatic.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is spread out evenly. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle in the ground cumin, garam masala, and paprika. Stir well to combine. Pour in the tomato sauce, followed by red chili powder, and salt. Mix everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and sugar. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce is thickened and creamy.
- Once your Creamy Butter Chicken is ready, serve it hot over a bed of basmati rice or with warm naan bread.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb side.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
