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Maya

Creamy Butter Chicken: Discover the Ultimate Recipe!

A rich and creamy Indian dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a spiced tomato and cream sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, pepper, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and paprika. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor).
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, butter, sugar, and lemon juice. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside basmati rice or naan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 30gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add 1-2 teaspoons of red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
  • Substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option that adds a subtle coconut flavor.

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