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Easy Indian-Style Butter Chicken Recipe

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A creamy, rich, and flavorful Indian-inspired chicken dish simmered in a buttery tomato-cream sauce with warm spices—ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, chopped
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional, for quick marinade)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1½ cups tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Pinch cayenne or chili powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. (Optional) Marinate chicken in yogurt, salt, and garam masala for 15–30 minutes.
  2. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high. Sear chicken until browned, 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic and ginger. Sauté 1–2 minutes.
  4. Stir in cumin, paprika, garam masala, and cayenne. Toast 30 seconds.
  5. Add tomato puree. Simmer 5–7 minutes.
  6. Lower heat. Stir in cream and sugar. Add chicken. Simmer 8–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  7. Taste and adjust salt. Stir in final tablespoon of butter. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

Notes

Use coconut cream for dairy-free. Serve with rice or naan. Store leftovers in fridge or freezer.