Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Butter chicken, known for its rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine. This quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe brings the incredible flavors of traditional Indian cooking right to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken breasts: 500 grams
– Butter: 2 tablespoons
– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
– Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
– Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
– Garlic: 1 tablespoon, minced
– Tomato puree: 1 cup
– Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
– Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
– Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
– Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
– Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
– Salt: to taste
– Fresh cilantro: for garnish
Prep Time
The prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering and preparing all the ingredients needed for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is around 30 minutes, making the total time for this butter chicken recipe about 45 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, perfect for a small gathering or a family dinner. Enjoy the delectable taste of butter chicken with naan or rice for a complete meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, and spices (like garam masala, cumin, and paprika). Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large pan, heat butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they are soft and golden. Then, add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the crushed tomatoes along with cashew paste and cook for about 10 minutes. Add the spices: turmeric, chili powder, and coriander. Cook until the mixture is thick and aromatic.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes to incorporate the flavors. Adjust the seasoning with salt as needed, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the butter chicken with basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Customization
Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. You can also use tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Cook techniques
Marinating Chicken
Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it juicy and succulent.
Searing for Flavor
Searing the chicken pieces in a hot pan creates a caramelized crust, enhancing the depth of flavor in the dish.
Building the Sauce
Cooking onions, garlic, and ginger before adding tomatoes enhances the aroma, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Simmering to Perfection
Allowing the sauce to simmer helps the flavors meld together and thickens the sauce, resulting in a rich consistency.
Finishing with Cream
Incorporating cream at the end of cooking adds richness and balances the spices, resulting in a creamy and luscious butter chicken.
FAQ
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use other meats such as turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Is it possible to make butter chicken in advance?
Absolutely! Butter chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat before serving.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs well with naan, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of spices in the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
What kind of yogurt is best for marinating?
Plain, unsweetened yogurt, preferably whole milk yogurt, is best for marinating as it tenderizes the chicken effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Indian cuisine in the comfort of your own kitchen. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a perfect meal for both weeknights and special occasions. Experimenting with spices and serving it with your favorite sides can elevate the dining experience even more, making it a family favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice
Serve the butter chicken over fragrant basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Butter Chicken Tacos
For a fun twist, use the butter chicken as a filling for tacos. Top with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime for a fusion dish.
Vegetarian Butter Chicken
Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a vegetarian version that retains the creamy, rich flavors of the traditional recipe.
Butter Chicken Pizza
Use butter chicken as a topping for pizza crust, along with mozzarella cheese and fresh herbs, for an innovative twist on pizza night.
Butter Chicken Pasta
Combine cooked pasta with butter chicken sauce for a creamy, spicy pasta dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
