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Butter Chicken (Better Than Takeout)

Butter Chicken (Better Than Takeout)

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Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Butter Chicken (Better Than Takeout), a beloved Indian dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe brings the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen, allowing you to create a comforting meal in just 25 minutes. With tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices and enveloped in a luscious sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or special gathering dish.

Ingredients

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  • 500 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1½ teaspoons garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¾ cup tomato purée or crushed tomatoes
  • ¾ cup heavy cream (or use Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter version)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and salt. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
  2. Cook chicken: Heat one tablespoon of butter and oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned (5–7 minutes). Remove from pan.
  3. Make sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté onions until soft (3–4 minutes). Add garlic, ginger, garam masala, and chili powder; stir for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add tomato base: Stir in tomato paste and purée; simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
  5. Combine cream & chicken: Pour in heavy cream (or alternative), return the chicken to skillet, and simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes until creamy.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

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