Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe: 30-Minute Rich & Velvety Indian-Inspired Classic
Tender marinated chicken simmered in a rich, buttery tomato-cream sauce with warm Indian spices. Ready in 30 minutes for the ultimate cozy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
½ cup plain yogurt
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp butter (for browning)
Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
1½ cups tomato puree
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp sugar
Salt to taste
Optional: cayenne or chili powder
¾ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter (to finish)
Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
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Marinate chicken with yogurt, spices, garlic, and ginger. Let sit 15+ minutes.
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Sear chicken in butter until browned. Remove from pan.
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In same pan, melt butter. Sauté garlic and ginger.
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Add tomato puree, garam masala, sugar, and salt. Simmer 8–10 mins.
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Stir in cream. Return chicken to pan. Simmer 5–7 mins until cooked.
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Swirl in last tbsp butter. Garnish with cilantro. Serve with rice or naan.
Notes
Adjust spice to taste. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and plant yogurt. Store leftovers for up to 4 days.