Ingredients
- 500g (1.1 lbs) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 200g (1 cup) plain yogurt
- 20g (4 tsp) ginger-garlic paste
- 5g (1 tsp) ground cumin
- 5g (1 tsp) ground coriander
- 5g (1 tsp) chili powder
- 5g (1 tsp) turmeric powder
- 60g (1/4 cup) butter
- 60ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream
- 400g (1 can, 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 10g (2 tsp) garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt half of the butter. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and garam masala. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is well-coated with the sauce. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the Butter Chicken hot with cooked rice or warm naan bread. Enjoy your creamy, aromatic masterpiece!
Conclusion
Now that you’ve crafted an impeccable Butter Chicken from scratch, you hold a passport to the soul-soothing depths of Indian culinary tradition. This dish, with its complex layers of flavor balanced by a luxurious creaminess, is a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something truly special. Share it with loved ones, and let your kitchen reverberate with the aromas and enjoyment of your cooking success.