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Easy Butter Chicken

Easy Butter Chicken

This Easy Butter Chicken recipe embodies simplicity and deliciousness, bringing restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen. It's quick to prepare, versatile, and uses everyday ingredients, making it a family favorite that can be enjoyed on busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup Plain Whole Milk Yogurt
  • 1 inch piece Fresh Ginger, grated or finely minced
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1.5 tsp Garam Masala
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder (Kashmiri or paprika)
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter, divided
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can Canned Crushed Tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup Water or Chicken Broth
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger, garlic, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining butter, and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and water (or broth) and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Return the seared chicken to the pot, stir to combine, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in the heavy cream, and adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. Ladle into bowls, garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately.

Notes

Marination is key for tenderness and flavor. Use quality ingredients for the best results. Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking for enhanced flavors.