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–+ servings

Easy Butter Chicken

Easy Butter Chicken is a creamy, flavorful Indian dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a spiced tomato and butter sauce, perfect for serving over rice or with naan.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt for marination
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes about 14 ounces
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon sugar to balance acidity
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
For Serving
  • 4 cups cooked basmati rice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped for garnish

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
  2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
Cook the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
  1. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, sugar, and coriander powder. Stir to combine.
Simmer
  1. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
  1. Serve the butter chicken over cooked basmati rice, garnished with chopped cilantro.
  2. Enjoy with naan or your choice of bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6g

Notes

For a spicier version, add additional chili powder to taste. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats well.

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