Introduction
Welcome to the world of comforting, aromatic flavors with this homemade butter chicken recipe! If you’ve ever craved the rich, creamy goodness of Indian cuisine, this dish is the perfect choice. Tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken are enveloped in a luscious sauce that’s bursting with spices and a hint of sweetness. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends, this delightful dish will surely impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat, letting its rich aroma fill your kitchen.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which usually takes about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until they release their fragrant notes.
- Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder; cook for 2-3 minutes until the spices are incredibly fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pan, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated with the delightful spice mix. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato puree and combine well; let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld those lovely flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich and creamy sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season with salt to taste, and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before diving into this delicious creation.
Notes or Tips
For an added depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for a couple of hours before cooking. You can also adjust the heat by modifying the amount of red chili powder to suit your taste. Serve this dish with fluffy rice or warm naan to soak up the exquisite sauce!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering butter chicken lies in the layering of flavors. Sautéing the onions until golden caramelizes their natural sugars, while cooking the spices until fragrant ensures they infuse every bite with complexity. Gently simmering the chicken allows it to cook perfectly, staying juicy and tender. The addition of heavy cream at the end creates that velvety finish that butter chicken is famous for.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil, and instead of heavy cream, try coconut milk for a wonderful, creamy consistency.
What sides pair well with butter chicken?
This dish is delicious served with basmati rice, naan bread, or even a simple salad to balance the richness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This homemade butter chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. With its luscious sauce and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy each flavorful bite and share it with loved ones for a delightful evening together!