Why Make This Recipe
Butter chicken is a beloved dish that brings rich flavors and a creamy texture to the table. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, making it a great choice for anyone looking to impress. This dish combines tender chicken with a delightful blend of spices and a luscious sauce that leaves everyone wanting more.
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 the onions, mincing the ginger and garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the 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 the 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 the flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro alongside rice or naan.
How to Serve Irresistible Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is best served hot. Pair it with fluffy rice or warm naan for a complete meal. A side of fresh salad can also add a nice crunch to your plate. You can even serve it with a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
How to Store Irresistible Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the butter chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Irresistible Butter Chicken
- Use boneless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust the spices to fit your taste. If you like it spicier, add red chili powder or more garam masala.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with yogurt.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Simply sauté them with the onions for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts. However, thighs tend to stay juicier.
2. Is butter chicken spicy?
Butter chicken is usually mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder if desired.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas and follow the same cooking process for a delicious vegetarian version.