Famous Butter Chicken: A Comfort Food You’ll Crave!
Are you ready to embark on a flavor-filled adventure? Famous Butter Chicken is the recipe that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart. Whether you’re a busy mom looking for a quick meal that’ll make you the superstar of your kitchen or just someone who wants to impress without the stress, this dish is perfect for you!
Why You’ll Love This Famous Butter Chicken
Picture this: It’s a chilly evening, you’ve had a long day at work, and all you want is to curl up with something delicious. Famous Butter Chicken is creamy, flavorful, and downright comforting! Throw this dish together, and it’s like giving your family a big, warm hug—with a side of naan, of course! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to gather everyone around the table, sharing laughter and stories while savoring a meal that feels special.
Ingredients
To get started, here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering dish:
-
For the chicken marinade:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (because thighs have a rich flavor that makes this dish even better!)
- 1 cup plain yogurt (the magic ingredient that keeps the chicken tender)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garam masala (your secret weapon for spices)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
-
For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (bring on the indulgence!)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream (because why not?)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (to balance the acidity)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Steps to Deliciousness
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they’re well-coated. Now, let those flavors marry for at least 30 minutes. If you’re thinking about meal prepping, you can even do this part a day in advance!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken, but don’t clean that pan! Those delicious brown bits are going to add tons of flavor to your sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, then add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until it smells heavenly. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes. Keep stirring—you don’t want any of it sticking to the bottom!
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Now it’s time to introduce your chicken back into the party! Add the chicken to the sauce along with the cream and sugar. Stir it all together, and let it simmer gently on low heat for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is luscious and thick.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm naan or fluffy rice. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like heaven on a rainy day!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
- Don’t rush the marination! The longer you let that chicken soak in the spices, the tastier it will be.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking. You can tone down the chili powder if you have little ones or spice it up for your adventurous pals.
- Leftover sauce? Mix it with pasta for an unexpected twist, or use it in a veggie stir-fry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute yogurt in this recipe?
Yes! You could use buttermilk or even a dairy-free yogurt if you’re going that route. Just make sure it’s thick enough to coat the chicken!
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve alongside Butter Chicken?
Rice, naan, or even a fresh salad work great! Try pairing it with my Easy Garlic Naan for the ultimate experience!
When you decide to whip up this Famous Butter Chicken, remember that it’s more than just a meal—it’s a way to create those lovely moments that linger long after the dishes are done. So grab your apron, bring the family to the table, and let that buttery goodness do the magic! This dish will surely be your new go-to for both those hectic weeknights and cozy gatherings with friends.
Ready to dive into even more deliciousness? Check out my Easy Chicken Curry for another fabulous recipe that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, my friends!
Meta Description: Famous Butter Chicken is the perfect recipe for busy days. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!
Famous Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Remove the chicken and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add onion and sauté until golden brown, then add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes while stirring.
- Add cooked chicken back into the skillet along with heavy cream and sugar. Stir and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm naan or fluffy rice.