How to Make the Perfect Famous Indian Butter Chicken
Indian · Medium · 60 min · 4 servings
This iconic Indian dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with warming spices. It is a beloved comfort food that delivers deep, complex flavors with every bite.
Why this recipe works
This Famous Indian Butter Chicken recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 60 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 520 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 700 g boneless chicken thighs cut into chunks
- 1 cup plain full-fat yogurt
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger paste
- 4 cloves garlic minced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine yogurt, half the garam masala, ginger paste, and half the garlic in a large bowl. Add chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over high heat. Cook the marinated chicken pieces for 4 to 5 minutes per side until slightly charred and cooked through. Set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add remaining garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and remaining garam masala. Simmer for 15 minutes stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked chicken pieces into the tomato sauce and stir to coat. Pour in the heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 10 minutes allowing the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the sauce.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust salt as needed. Garnish with a swirl of cream and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- heavy cream → full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- boneless chicken thighs → boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option
- plain yogurt → dairy-free coconut yogurt for a vegan marinade
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the marination step which results in dry and flavorless chicken
- Adding cream over high heat which causes the sauce to curdle and separate
- Not simmering the tomato sauce long enough leaving a raw acidic taste
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 520 calories, 38g protein, 14g carbs, 34g fat, 3g fiber.
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