Easy Butter Chicken Recipe: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

What is Easy Butter Chicken Recipe Ingredients?

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg boneless chicken thighs
• 200 ml plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp ginger paste
• 2 tbsp garlic paste
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 100 g unsalted butter
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 400 g tinned tomatoes
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt to taste

Spice Blend:

• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 whole cloves

Garnish:

• Fresh coriander leaves
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup cream

Equipment Needed:

• Large mixing bowl
• Heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board

How do you Make Easy Butter Chicken Recipe ? Step-by-step Guide

Cooking Time: 1 hour (plus marination)
Serves: 4-6 people

How is Butter Chicken Marinated? (Prep Time: 2-4 hours or overnight)

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Add chicken pieces and mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for maximum flavor).

How is the Chicken Prepared?

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
2. Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess.
3. Place chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly charred and cooked through.

How to Make Butter Chicken Sauce Recipe?

1. In a large heavy-bottomed pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add whole cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds (this is called tempering).
3. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown (about 10 minutes).
4. Throw in minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Add tomato paste and tinned tomatoes, stirring constantly.
6. Sprinkle in the remaining spice blend: coriander powder, cardamom, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
7. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

How is Butter Chicken Prepared?

1. Remove the whole spices (cinnamon stick and cloves).
2. Use a hand blender to create a smooth sauce (optional, but recommended).
3. Add heavy cream and sugar, stirring to combine.
4. Cut the baked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Gently fold chicken into the sauce.
6. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let flavors meld.

How is Butter Chicken Served?

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Drizzle extra cream and a knob of butter on top.
3. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

What are Some Tips in Making Easy Butter Chicken Recipe?

• Use full-fat yogurt for the most tender chicken as using low-fat yogurt leads to dry chicken
• Don’t rush the onion caramelisation – it builds incredible depth of flavor
• Cooking on too high will burn the spices
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken stock
• Adjust the seasoning to taste
• Marinating overnight transforms the dish from good to extraordinary. Don’t skip this step!

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze for up to 1 month
• Reheat gently on stovetop, adding a splash of cream to restore consistency

Dietary Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream
• Low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice

Bon appétit, curry adventurers! 🍛🔥