Go Back
+ servings
Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Easily Whip Up Comforting Easy Butter Chicken Recipe Tonight

This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for a quick, comforting dinner bursting with rich flavors.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Marination
  • 1 kg Boneless Chicken Thighs Tender and juicy
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Can substitute with plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed
  • 4 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh garlic preferred
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (Grated) Ground ginger can be a substitute
  • 2 tbsp Garam Masala Essential spice mix
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Butter/Ghee Can use vegetable oil if desired
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion (Finely Chopped) Can substitute with red onion
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Canned or fresh
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut or cashew cream for dairy-free
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Intensifies flavor
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional) Adjust for heat preference
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Can be omitted
  • 2 pieces Lime Wedges For added flavor

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • heavy-bottomed pan
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine the boneless chicken thighs, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, and salt. Mix until well coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes until golden, then stir in additional minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for a few minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, paprika, and cayenne pepper, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  4. Add the marinated chicken and any remaining marinade to the pan, stir to coat, and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender and cooked through.
  5. Temper the heavy cream by whisking in a small amount of the hot sauce, then stir it back into the pan until achieving a rich and silky consistency.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately with naan or basmati rice, offering lime wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 35gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 170mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances flavors and tenderness. Adjust cayenne for spice preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!