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Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe for Comfort and Flavor Recipe

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4.5 from 4 reviews

This creamy butter chicken recipe offers a comforting and flavorful Indian-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken thighs cooked in a rich tomato and cream sauce, perfectly complemented by naan bread and steamed rice.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Skinless boneless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances all the flavors; sea salt yields a natural taste

For the Marinade

  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic provides a punchier flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Infuses sweetness and color; swap in smoked paprika for an earthy twist
  • 1 tablespoon Curry Powder Brings warmth and complexity; garam masala can replace it for different spice notes
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Creamy base for marinating the chicken; dairy-free yogurt is great for lighter options

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Essential for sautéing; olive or coconut oil can introduce new flavors
  • 3 tablespoons Butter Adds richness to the sauce; vegan butter serves as a dairy-free substitute
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh flavor booster; increase for a stronger taste
  • 1 medium Onion Provides sweetness; substitute with shallots for milder flavor
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Tangy base for the sauce; passata or crushed tomatoes work well too
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity; try honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth; cracked pepper can provide extra bite
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Ensures a rich texture; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional heat boost; adjust to taste or omit for milder palates
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala Essential for authentic flavor; adds aromatic spices

For Garnish & Serving

  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Adds freshness; cilantro offers an herbaceous alternative
  • 4 Naan Bread A traditional accompaniment to soak up the sauce
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice The perfect complement to the rich dish, adding a comforting base

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Coat the chicken evenly and marinate for 15 minutes to infuse flavors.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 10 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion for 5 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar into the skillet. Let it simmer for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Simmer the Chicken in Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add ½ cup of heavy cream. Season with cayenne pepper, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavors.
  6. Finish with Butter: Stir in 1 tablespoon of cold butter until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce for extra richness and creaminess.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the butter chicken with fresh parsley. Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • For a leaner option, substitute chicken breasts for thighs in the recipe.
  • Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika for a smoky flavor twist.
  • Garam masala can replace curry powder in the marinade for a different spice profile.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt and heavy cream with coconut cream.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your preferred spice level or omit it for milder taste.
  • Serve with fresh cilantro instead of parsley for a different herbaceous note.
  • Passata or crushed tomatoes can be used instead of tomato sauce for varying textures.
  • Let the sauce simmer uncovered to thicken properly and intensify flavors.
  • Ensure the butter is cold before adding in the final step for a silky sauce finish.

Find it online: https://sweetworldcooks.com/creamy-butter-chicken-recipe-for-comfort-and-flavor-recipe/