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This Butter Chicken Dinner Recipe offers a delightful and aromatic meal that will surely delight your loved ones. The combination of tender chicken pieces, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a harmonious blend of spices creates a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, the straightforward instructions ensure a successful and delicious outcome.

Table of Contents

Marinating the chicken is a key step in enhancing its succulence and taste, resulting in moist and flavorful meat once cooked. The velvety sauce, crafted from a medley of tomatoes, cream, and traditional Indian spices, imparts a luxurious and subtly sweet buttery taste to the dish. Paired with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread, this Butter Chicken Dinner is ideal for a relaxing evening at home or for hosting guests.

Whether you’re yearning for the vibrant tastes of Indian cuisine or seeking to add variety to your weekday dinners, this Butter Chicken recipe is a definite must-try. Gather your ingredients, allow the flavors to meld, and prepare to savor a homemade meal that is bound to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground ginger
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1 cup tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

equipment

Skillet
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife
Wooden spoon

Instructions

Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and thoroughly coating them with the marinade mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, spices, garlic, and ginger to infuse them with flavor.
Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it, ensuring a succulent texture when cooked.
In a skillet, heat butter and brown the marinated chicken on all sides until it develops a rich flavor and a slightly crispy exterior, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Once the chicken is browned, add tomato puree and heavy cream to the skillet, then simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency.
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness, and serve hot alongside rice or naan bread for a comforting and aromatic meal that will delight your taste buds.
Indulge in this Butter Chicken Dinner Recipe featuring tender chicken, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a harmonious blend of spices that promise a delightful and flavorful dining experience for you and your loved ones.

tips & tricks

For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.
Adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder.
Make it ahead of time as the flavors develop even more when reheated.
Try grilling the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor twist.

fAQs about Butter Chicken Dinner Recipe

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breast, but thighs are more flavorful and tender in this recipe.

Q: How spicy is butter chicken?
A: Butter chicken is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder.

Q: Can I freeze butter chicken?
A: Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

conclusion

Butter chicken offers endless possibilities for customization to cater to various tastes. Whether paired with fluffy rice, soft naan, or nutritious quinoa, this dish is sure to satisfy. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and easily reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. Should the sauce separate during reheating, a quick whisk will restore its creamy texture.

Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations to create your own signature twist on this traditional Indian favorite. Embrace the chance to play with flavors and textures, crafting a butter chicken rendition that reflects your unique culinary style. Enjoy the culinary journey of discovering the perfect blend of spices and ingredients that resonate with your palate.