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Delicious Butter Chicken served with rice and naan bread

Butter Chicken

A creamy, rich dish filled with aromatic spices, Butter Chicken is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 3 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 1/2 cup plain yoghurt (full fat) Adds a delightful tang and helps tenderize the chicken.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens the flavors.
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder Offers a warm hue and earthy flavor.
  • 2 tsp garam masala Brings warmth and depth.
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
  • 1 tsp ground cumin Imparts a nutty flavor.
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger Introduces a zesty aroma.
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed A fundamental flavor booster.
Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lb chicken thigh fillets Juicy and tender.
  • 2 tbsp ghee or butter Ghee is traditional, but butter works too.
  • 1 cup tomato passata For a rich sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy/thickened cream Adds creaminess.
  • 1 tbsp sugar Balances acidity.
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt Essential for flavor.
  • Basmati rice or white rice Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
  • Fresh coriander or cilantro (optional) Adds freshness.

Method
 

Marinade the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, ginger, and garlic. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, ensuring every piece is coated in the marinade.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight or for a minimum of three hours.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat ghee or butter in a heavy-duty frying pan over high heat.
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade (do not wipe off excess). Place the chicken into the hot pan.
  3. Cook for about three minutes until the chicken turns white all over.
Prepare the Sauce
  1. Add the tomato passata, cream, sugar, and salt to the pan. Include any remaining marinade.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
  3. Taste and adjust the salt as necessary.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Garnish with fresh coriander or cilantro.
  2. Serve alongside basmati rice or naan.

Notes

For a smoother sauce, blend the marinade ingredients (excluding the chicken). Adjust spice levels as desired.