Easy Butter Chicken: A Simple Recipe for Delicious Indian Food

Welcome to a flavorful journey where we explore the delectable world of Easy Butter Chicken. This iconic Indian dish is a perfect blend of rich, creamy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable, simple, and absolutely mouthwatering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why Easy Butter Chicken should be on your must-try list:

1. Quick and easy to make

2. Creamy and rich flavors

3. Perfect balance of spices

4. Great for a cozy night in or entertaining guests

Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs

– 1 cup of plain yogurt

– 1 tablespoon of ginger garlic paste

– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder

– 1 teaspoon of chili powder

– Salt to taste

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

– 2 tablespoons of butter

– 1 tablespoon of oil

– 1 large onion, finely chopped

– 1 tablespoon of ginger garlic paste

– 1 teaspoon of cumin powder

– 1 teaspoon of coriander powder

– 1 teaspoon of garam masala

– 1 cup of tomato puree

– 1/2 cup of heavy cream

– Fresh cilantro for garnish

Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions on how to prepare Easy Butter Chicken:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, ginger garlic paste, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. In a pan, heat butter and oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

3. Add ginger garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.

4. Stir in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

5. Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

6. Finish off by adding heavy cream and simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.

For an extra touch of authenticity, consider serving Easy Butter Chicken with fragrant basmati rice, garlic naan, and a side of cucumber raita. This dish pairs perfectly with a refreshing mango lassi or a spicy chai tea.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use boneless chicken thighs for a tender and juicy result.

2. Adjust the spice levels to suit your preference.

3. For a smoky flavor, finish the dish off with a sprinkle of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves).

Now, let’s address some common questions you may have about Easy Butter Chicken:

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

2. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

3. How spicy is Easy Butter Chicken?

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

6. Is Easy Butter Chicken gluten-free?

7. How long does it take to cook the chicken?

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

9. How do I reheat Easy Butter Chicken?

10. What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

11. Can I make Easy Butter Chicken in an Instant Pot?

12. What is the origin of Butter Chicken?

In conclusion, Easy Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine to your home kitchen. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking up a storm with this Easy Butter Chicken recipe today!