Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of butter chicken, a beloved dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine to your table. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or at a gathering, this butter chicken is sure to be a hit with everyone. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 200ml heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 200g) contains about 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, and 10g carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in canned tomatoes, garam masala, and cumin; stir well.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with rice or naan.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with paneer or tofu, and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Serving and Pairings
Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. Serve with a side of cucumber salad or raita for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality chicken can result in a chewy texture.
- Not browning the onions properly can lead to a bland flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
- Skipping the marination process reduces flavor depth.
- Adding cream too early can curdle it.
- Not adjusting seasoning can leave the dish flat.
- Using cold ingredients can slow down cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken for a few hours for enhanced flavor.
- Use fresh spices for a more vibrant taste.
- Adjust spice levels according to your preference.
- Experiment with different herbs for garnish.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
FAQs
Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare butter chicken ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is butter chicken spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Traditional recipes use spices, but you can reduce the heat by using less chili or opting for milder spices.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken goes well with basmati rice, naan, or salad. Pair it with yogurt-based raita for a refreshing contrast.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Adjust the spices accordingly to balance flavors.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken should be opaque and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 75°C (165°F) when fully cooked.
Conclusion
Butter chicken is a comforting dish that brings a taste of India to your home. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Try this recipe today and enjoy the rich flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken breast diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger grated
- 400 g canned tomatoes
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in canned tomatoes, garam masala, and cumin; stir well.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with rice or naan.
Nutrition
