Easy Butter Chicken: A Simple Recipe for Delicious Indian Cuisine

Easy butter chicken is a dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. Originating from the vibrant streets of Delhi, this creamy, spiced delight has a rich history that dates back to the 1950s when it was created by the chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato and butter sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent.

What I love most about easy butter chicken is its incredible versatility; it pairs beautifully with fluffy naan or fragrant basmati rice, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. The balance of spices, the velvety texture, and the mouthwatering aroma make it a favorite among family and friends. Plus, this recipe is designed to be simple and quick, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Join me as we explore this delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to every table!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Marinating the Chicken

To start off, I like to marinate the chicken to infuse it with flavor. Here’s how I do it:

1. In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the chicken and enhances the flavor.

Preparing the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, I like to prepare the sauce. It’s rich and creamy, and it’s what makes this butter chicken so delicious!

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine with the onion, garlic, and ginger mixture. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can add a pinch of salt at this stage to enhance the taste.
4. After 10 minutes, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. This will give the sauce its signature creaminess. Allow it to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cooking the Chicken

Now that the sauce is ready, it’s time to cook the marinated chicken. This is where the magic happens!

1. In a separate large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, shaking off any excess marinade.
2. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
3. Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to the sauce you prepared earlier. Stir well to coat the chicken in the creamy tomato sauce.
4. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

Final Touches

As the butter chicken simmers, the aroma fills the kitchen, and I can hardly wait to dig in! Here’s how to finish it off:

1. Once the chicken is cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or chili powder if you prefer a spicier dish.
2. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some fresh cilantro over the top of the butter chicken just before serving. It adds a lovely freshness that complements the richness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Conclusion:

In summary, this easy butter chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices, makes for a comforting meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this delightful butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce. You can also add a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with variations by adding different proteins like shrimp or paneer, or even incorporating vegetables like spinach or peas for a twist on the classic recipe. I encourage you to give this easy butter chicken a try and share your experience with me! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, I believe you’ll find this recipe not only simple to follow but also incredibly rewarding. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it on social media—I’d love to see how your version turns out! Happy cooking!

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