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Butter Chicken

Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe: How to Make the Famous Indian Dish at Home

Julia
This classic Indian Butter Chicken recipe features marinated chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce, delivering bold flavors and smooth textures.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Marinade
  • 1 lb 450g boneless chicken thighs, diced
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • For the Sauce
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 cup tomato purée
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves kasuri methi
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • 1.     Marinate the ChickenCombine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Coat chicken evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  • 2.     Cook the ChickenHeat oil in a skillet. Sear marinated chicken until browned; set aside.
  • 3.     Make the SauceMelt butter in a skillet, add onions, and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste, cook until fragrant, then add tomato purée. Cook until thickened, then add spices.
  • 4.     Combine and FinishStir in cream, add the cooked chicken, and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with cilantro.

Notes

  • For more heat, add extra chili powder.
  • Optional: Add cashew paste for a thicker sauce.