Simple Butter Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, then this Simple Butter Chicken recipe is just what you need! This classic Indian dish is a favorite for many, and for good reason. Tender pieces of chicken are bathed in a luscious sauce made with tomatoes, cream, and a blend of spices that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Delhi. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressive enough for guests, this recipe is both simple and satisfying. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, and you have a meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Simple Butter Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The marinade made with yogurt and spices tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with flavor. The combination of butter, cream, and tomato sauce creates a silky sauce that clings to the chicken perfectly. Plus, it’s customizable! Adjust the spices to suit your taste, and you can easily make it as mild or spicy as you like. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this dish will impress your family and friends alike!

Shopping List

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (full fat)
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup butter, divided
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Cooked rice (try basmati or jasmine)
• Naan (for serving)

Equipment Breakdown

• Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the onion and chicken.

Simple Butter Chicken in Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, grated ginger, minced garlic, curry powder, and ground cumin. Add the chicken pieces and stir until they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and nearly cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Pour in the tomato sauce, cream, sugar, garam masala, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and thick, remove from heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for extra richness. Serve the Simple Butter Chicken over cooked rice, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, and alongside warm naan.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Low-Fat Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter dish.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the naan and any accompanying bread are gluten-free.
• Spice Control: Adjust spices to make it milder for children or those sensitive to heat.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Skipping the marination step can lead to less flavorful chicken.
• Cooking at too high of a heat can burn the spices and alter the flavor.
• Not stirring the sauce occasionally may cause it to stick to the bottom of the pan.
• Rushing the simmering process will not allow the flavors to fully develop.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Leftover Simple Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if it appears too thick. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ask the Chef

Can I use boneless skinless thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What type of curry powder should I use?

You can use any curry powder you prefer, but a good quality, mild curry powder will work beautifully. If you like it spicy, feel free to add more cayenne or use a spicier curry blend.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Simple Butter Chicken can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. Just reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with Simple Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, jasmine rice, or homemade naan. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Chicken Curry
• Easy Chicken Tikka Masala
• Vegan Chickpea Curry
• Easy Coconut Curry

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have the recipe for Simple Butter Chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. The flavors are rich, the preparation is straightforward, and the satisfaction of a homemade meal is unmatched. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation with friends and family!