Name: Easy Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: Garlic-Ginger Paste:; 2 tbsp. grated fresh ginger; 2 tbsp. grated garlic; Chicken:; 1-1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup butter; 2 tbsp. olive oil; Marinade:; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp. grated fresh ginger; 1 tbsp. grated garlic; 1 tbsp. chili powder; 1 tbsp. garam masala; 1 tbsp. turmeric; 1 tbsp. cumin; Sauce:; 1/4 cup butter; 2 tbsp. olive oil; 1-finely chopped medium onion; 1 tbsp. grated fresh ginger; 1 tbsp. grated garlic; 2 tbsp. tomato paste; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 tbsp. cardamom; 1 tbsp. coriander; 1 tbsp. chili powder; 1 tbsp. garam masala; 1 tbsp. turmeric; 1 tbsp. cumin

Mmm, Korma. Tandoori, biryani, tikka masala. Chances are, you have sampled many Indian dishes, but have you tried butter chicken? Trying Indian food for the first time can be overwhelming. There are many options. My advice is to start with my go-to dish. When I crave Indian cuisine, I choose Easy Butter Chicken!

What is Butter Chicken

There are many Indian curries, each unique. But when it comes to classic comfort food, there is nothing like butter chicken. This dish is rich and creamy, with the right amount of spice.

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, originated in India. It is one of the most delicious curries in the world! This rich dish uses a blend of spices. When combined with the flavor of butter, they are unforgettable. It is a simple dish that anyone can make at home. And it is impressive enough to make you feel like you have gone all out.

My Experience with Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is an Indian classic and one of my favorite curries. My first taste of it still stands out in my memory. I loved the rich and creamy flavor. The spices were perfectly balanced. The tender chicken was delicious, and the tomato-based gravy was rich and creamy.

After that first time, butter chicken was a frequent dish of mine. I would make it often, as it was quick and easy to prepare. I experimented with different ingredients and techniques. After years of practice, I think I have perfected the recipe!

I share my recipe with friends and family, and everyone loves it. The most notable part about making this delicious curry is that it is easy to make. It is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts.
After that first time, butter chicken was a frequent dish of mine. I would make it often, as it was quick and easy to prepare. I experimented with different ingredients and techniques. After years of practice, I think I have perfected the recipe!

The Secret to a Great Curry

The key to a delicious curry is the right balance of spices and tastes. You want a flavorful curry that is not spicy. The most effective way to achieve this is to start with onion, ginger, and garlic. Then, add tomato paste and your spice blend.

A blend of garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder will give your curry an exotic flavor. Experiment with different spice blends to add a personal touch.

Ingredients for Butter Chicken

Garlic-Ginger Paste:

2 tbsp. grated fresh ginger
2 tbsp. grated garlic

Chicken:

1-1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup butter
2 tbsp. olive oil

Marinade:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp. grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp. grated garlic
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 tbsp. garam masala
1 tbsp. turmeric
1 tbsp. cumin

Sauce:

1/4 cup butter
2 tbsp. olive oil
1-finely chopped medium onion
1 tbsp. grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp. grated garlic
2 tbsp. tomato paste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 tbsp. cardamom
1 tbsp. coriander
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 tbsp. garam masala
1 tbsp. turmeric
1 tbsp. cumin
Parsley for garnish

How to Make Butter Chicken

Marinate the Chicken:

Cut the chicken thighs into 3/4-inch-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken and marinade ingredients.
Mix to coat the chicken well.
Cover and set aside for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Chicken:

Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 3 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

Add butter and oil to the pan over medium heat.
Add onions, ginger, and garlic, and cook until the onions have softened.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
Deglaze the pan with broth and scrape the bottom to release any stuck bits.
Add the cream and spices to the pan and stir well to incorporate.
Simmer the sauce on medium for 10 minutes to thicken.
Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce.
Simmer for 10 minutes.

Butter Chicken Recipe Tips

Butter chicken is considered the king of Indian cuisine. It is hard to resist the seductive aroma of tender chicken stewed in a creamy, tomato-based curry. And who does not love the golden, buttery texture that melts in your mouth with every bite? Here are some tips to help create a flavorful dish.

It is all About the Spices:

Try adding more or less one to get your flavor. Make your own garam masala. You can find many recipes online.

Try a Store-bought Sauce Mix:

Patak’s Butter Chicken Curry Sauce is a good alternative. It cuts the preparation time and has an authentic taste.

Choose the Right Chicken:

I use chicken thighs in this recipe instead of breasts. The thighs add richness to the sauce and remain tender during cooking.

Marinate the Chicken:

It is essential to marinate the chicken in a yogurt spice mix. The yogurt tenderizes, and the spices add flavor.

Fresh Herbs Add Flavor to Your Dish:

Garnish with chopped herbs like cilantro, mint, parsley, and basil. You can also experiment with dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, or thyme.

Choose Different Proteins:

Shrimp, pork, or beef work well. You will have to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat you use.

Customize your Tastes:

Using different sauces can help you customize the taste of butter chicken. You can add soy sauce for umami depth, fish sauce for salty funkiness, or honey for sweetness. If you want more spice, add sriracha or red chili paste.

Serve Tasty Sides:

Jasmine rice is a good choice. The aromatic rice soaks up the buttery sauce. Light and Fluffy Naan Bread is another traditional accompaniment. Slather the bread with a spread of garlic ginger butter.

Alternative Recipes

Butter Chicken is the go-to dish for Indian food enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys spice. But did you know there are many ways to create this dish? Here are some alternative recipes to try next time you crave Butter Chicken.

Vegetarian Butter Chicken Recipe:

For all those vegetarians, do not be frightened by the word “chicken.” You can still enjoy authentic flavors with one of its alternative vegetarian recipes. Swap out the chicken for vegetables. Try peas, carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, spinach, or tomatoes. You can also experiment with vegetables like sweet potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, or squash.

Butter Chicken Casserole Recipe:

Another fantastic way to enjoy Butter Chicken flavors is by turning it into a casserole. Cut the chicken into small bites and mix it with a flavorful tomato sauce, vegetables, and rice. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.

Thai Style Butter Chicken Recipe:

For those who love Butter Chicken and Thai cuisine, combine both for a unique experience. Swap out Indian spices for Thai flavors like lemongrass, coriander, and ginger. Add some Thai chilies or paste for heat. Substitute coconut milk for cream to create that velvety smooth texture.

Butter chicken is a favorite, but there are many ways to enjoy its flavors. The classic recipe reigns supreme, but do not be afraid to try one of the alternatives above. You might discover another favorite way to enjoy butter chicken!