Creamy Butter Chicken is a dish that wraps you in a warm, fragrant hug with every bite. Picture tender chicken pieces swimming in a velvety sauce, rich with spices, and infused with buttery goodness. The aroma wafts through the air, making your mouth water in anticipation as it simmers on the stove.
I still remember the first time I made Creamy Butter Chicken for my friends. They gathered around, eyes wide, as the aroma danced enticingly around us. It was a night filled with laughter and second helpings that made me realize this dish was destined to be a staple for cozy gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Butter Chicken recipe combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for more
- The vibrant colors and creamy texture make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for special occasions
My friends still rave about that dinner party where I served my Creamy Butter Chicken. The smiles and satisfied sighs were all the encouragement I needed to keep it in my regular rotation. For more inspiration, check out this perfect dinner options recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch recipes recipe.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose fresh chicken breasts for tenderness; they soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic is essential in this dish.
- Fresh Ginger: Grate finely for a zesty kick; it adds depth and warmth to the sauce.
- Canned Tomato Puree: Opt for quality brands; this forms the base of your delicious sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Use full-fat cream for richness; it gives that dreamy texture we crave.
- Butter: Go for unsalted butter; it allows you to control the saltiness perfectly.
- Spices (Garam Masala, Cumin, Paprika): Fresh spices elevate the flavor profile; don’t skimp here!
- Cilantro (for garnish): Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness; sprinkle generously before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces while enjoying the aromatic scents of ginger and garlic filling your kitchen.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant—this should take about 1 minute.
Cook the Chicken: Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes will do!
Add Tomato Puree & Spices: Pour in canned tomato puree along with garam masala and cumin. Stir well to combine everything while letting those beautiful colors shine through.
Pour in Heavy Cream: Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream slowly while stirring gently. Allow everything to simmer together until creamy and luscious—about 10 minutes should do!
Final Touches & Serve!: Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Once satisfied, serve hot over fluffy rice or with warm naan bread for an unforgettable meal experience.
This Creamy Butter Chicken recipe not only makes your taste buds dance but also fills your home with aromas that are sure to bring everyone to the dinner table! Enjoy every moment of cooking as much as you will savor every bite!
You Must Know
- Creamy Butter Chicken is a delightful dish with rich flavors and aromas
- This recipe brings a taste of India into your kitchen, making weeknight dinners feel like special occasions
- When served with fluffy rice or naan, it’s truly irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavors, then simmer it gently in the creamy sauce for perfect tenderness and taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or add veggies like spinach for a nutritious boost while keeping the richness intact.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Creamy Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; gently reheat on the stove to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use yogurt as a marinade to tenderize chicken and add tanginess
- Always taste and adjust seasoning towards the end for best results
- A dash of lime juice brightens up the flavors beautifully
Cooking this dish reminds me of a dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about it, declaring I should open a restaurant instead of just cooking at home.
FAQ
What can I serve with Creamy Butter Chicken?
Serve it with basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal experience.
Can I make Creamy Butter Chicken spicy?
Absolutely! Add more chili powder or fresh chilies to elevate the heat level.
How do I store leftover Creamy Butter Chicken?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Creamy Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Creamy Butter Chicken is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, velvety sauce, creating a delightful experience in every bite. Infused with aromatic spices and buttery goodness, this recipe brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup canned tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the tomato puree, garam masala, cumin, and paprika; mix well.
- Lower the heat and gradually add heavy cream, stirring gently. Simmer until creamy (about 10 minutes).
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving hot over rice or with naan. Garnish with cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg