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–+ servings
Butter Chicken Recipe

Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe Perfect for Cozy Nights

This Butter Chicken recipe combines comforting creaminess with spices, perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable to your taste.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marination Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 lbs Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts; adjust cooking time as needed.
  • 1 tsp Salt Use kosher or sea salt for better dissolution and taste.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used instead, in equal amounts (6 cloves minced).
  • 1 tsp Sweet Paprika Smoked paprika can be substituted for a smoky flavor.
  • 1 tsp Curry Powder Indian curry powder preferred; adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Olive oil or ghee can be alternatives.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Can use plant-based butter for a dairy-free variant.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh aromatics that infuse flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion Substitute with shallots if preferred.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Crushed tomatoes can be used for a chunkier texture.
  • 1 tsp Sugar Honey or maple syrup can be used based on preference.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground provides superior flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with canned coconut milk for a lighter option.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional for heat; adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala Can replace with a mix of cumin and coriander if unavailable.
For Serving
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Optional but adds freshness to the dish.
  • 4 pieces Naan Bread Can swap with pita bread or serve without for a low-carb option.
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice Quinoa can be a gluten-free alternative.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add butter. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until translucent, scraping browned bits from the pan.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and sugar, simmmer for 2-3 minutes and then return the chicken to the skillet. Add heavy cream and stir until well combined.
  5. Add cayenne pepper, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper to taste. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
  6. Stir in additional butter for a silky finish. Garnish with parsley if desired.
  7. Serve hot alongside warm naan bread and steamed rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow chicken to marinate for longer for deeper flavor. Adjust spices to your liking and use dairy-free alternatives if needed.

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