why make this recipe
Butter chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, spiced sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you have guests. The flavors are rich, and it pairs beautifully with rice or naan. This recipe is not only easy to make but also brings a taste of Indian cuisine right into your home. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
how to make Irresistible Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
- Gather all ingredients and finely chop onions, mincing the ginger and garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add seasoned chicken thighs and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side).
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet. Add the remaining butter and minced onions to the same pan; sauté until translucent.
- Mix in garlic and ginger, then pour in the tomato puree. Cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in garam masala, cumin, and turmeric; cook until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the heavy cream, and mix gently. Simmer for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro alongside rice or naan.
how to serve Irresistible Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is best served hot. You can present it in a large bowl with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or warm naan bread for dipping. This way, everyone can enjoy the delicious sauce and soak up every last bit of flavor!
how to store Irresistible Butter Chicken
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The butter chicken can last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
tips to make Irresistible Butter Chicken
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture; they hold up better in the sauce than chicken breasts.
- Don’t skip the fresh cilantro; it adds a nice touch of freshness to the dish.
- Adjust the spices to your taste. If you prefer it spicier, consider adding some chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Let the butter chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving, as it will enhance the flavors.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. The same creamy sauce works wonderfully with these alternatives. For a lighter option, try using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but the thighs are recommended for their tenderness and juiciness in this dish.
2. Is butter chicken very spicy?
No, this butter chicken recipe is not very spicy. You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of garam masala or adding more or less chili powder.
3. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and it can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.