Butter Chicken

Did you know that Butter Chicken is one of the most popular Indian curries worldwide? This beloved dish is known for its rich and creamy flavors that leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking to explore new flavors, this easy-to-make Butter Chicken recipe is a must-try.

Ingredient List & Possible Substitutions

The key ingredients for making Butter Chicken include chicken thighs, plain yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, ginger, garlic, tomato passata, cream, sugar, and salt.

However, if you prefer chicken breasts, they can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs. For plain yogurt, Greek yogurt can be a suitable replacement.

If you don’t have lemon juice on hand, lime juice can be used instead.

In case garam masala is not available, you can create a substitute by combining ground cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom in equal proportions.

To add more heat to the dish, consider adding additional chili powder or cayenne pepper.

How To Make It

Follow this step-by-step Butter Chicken recipe to create a delicious Indian curry at home.

1. Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, ginger, and garlic. Let it marinate for at least 3 hours or overnight. This marinade will infuse the chicken with flavorful spices and tenderize the meat.
2. Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium heat until it is white all over. Ensure that the chicken is cooked through to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
3. In the same skillet, prepare the sauce by adding tomato passata, cream, sugar, and salt. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes until it thickens and develops a rich, velvety texture. The combination of tomato passata and cream creates the signature buttery and creamy sauce of Butter Chicken.
4. Garnish the Butter Chicken with cilantro leaves for a fresh and aromatic touch. The vibrant green cilantro adds a pop of color and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
5. Serve the Butter Chicken with basmati rice or naan bread. The fragrant and fluffy basmati rice complements the creamy sauce perfectly, while the soft and chewy naan bread is ideal for mopping up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.

Now that you know the step-by-step instructions for making Butter Chicken at home, you can enjoy this beloved Indian curry whenever you want. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy tomato sauce will surely impress your taste buds and make this dish a favorite in your household.

Don’t forget to take a look at the image below to get a glimpse of what your final Butter Chicken dish could look like!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Butter Chicken, there are several delicious options to consider. Here are some suggestions for side dishes that will perfectly complement this flavorful dish:

• Basmati Rice: Serve Butter Chicken with fragrant basmati rice to soak up the creamy sauce. The combination of tender chicken and aromatic rice creates a satisfying and comforting meal.
• Naan Bread or Roti: For a delightful experience, pair Butter Chicken with naan bread or roti. These soft and fluffy breads are perfect for dipping and scooping up the creamy sauce.
• Papadums: If you’re looking for a quick and crispy side dish, try microwaving papadums. These thin and crispy Indian crackers add a delightful crunch to your meal.
• Samosas: Serve samosas as an appetizer or snack alongside Butter Chicken. These savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat provide a delightful contrast to the creamy flavors of the main dish.
• Vegetable Side Dishes: For added variety and nutrition, consider serving Butter Chicken with vegetable side dishes. Aloo Gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) or Saag Paneer (spinach and cheese curry) are excellent choices. These flavorful and vibrant curries will complement the rich flavors of the Butter Chicken.

With these serving suggestions, you can transform your Butter Chicken into a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer rice, bread, or a variety of side dishes, there’s a combination that will please your taste buds.

FAQ

What is Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken is one of the most popular Indian curries worldwide, known for its rich and creamy flavors. It is a beloved dish that combines tender and flavorful chicken with a velvety and indulgent tomato and cream sauce.

How easy is it to make Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken is easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that can be found at any supermarket. With the right spices, chicken, yogurt, and a few other pantry staples, you can create a delicious homemade Butter Chicken that will impress your family and friends.

What ingredients do I need to make Butter Chicken?

The recipe calls for chicken thighs, plain yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, ginger, garlic, tomato passata, cream, sugar, and salt. If preferred, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for plain yogurt, and lime juice can be used instead of lemon juice. If you do not have garam masala, you can make a substitute using ground cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.

How do I make Butter Chicken?

To make Butter Chicken, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, ginger, and garlic. Let the chicken marinate for at least 3 hours or overnight. Then, cook the marinated chicken in a skillet until it is white all over. In the same skillet, prepare the sauce by adding tomato passata, cream, sugar, and salt. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes until it thickens. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve with basmati rice or naan bread.

Can I serve Butter Chicken with other dishes?

Yes, Butter Chicken can be served with a variety of Indian side dishes. It pairs well with basmati rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Naan bread or roti can be served alongside Butter Chicken for dipping and scooping. Papadums can be microwaved for a quick and crispy side dish. Additionally, vegetable side dishes, such as Aloo Gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) or Saag Paneer (spinach and cheese curry), can be served for added variety and nutrition.