Easy Butter Chicken Recipe: Quick and Delicious

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish known for its rich, creamy and flavorful tomato-based sauce. If you’re craving the indulgence of butter chicken but prefer a simplified version, this easy recipe is perfect for you. With readily available ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy the deliciousness of butter chicken without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this quick and easy butter chicken recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

  • 500 grams of boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger paste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste

For the butter chicken sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons of butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons of ginger paste
  • 2 teaspoons of garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt to create the marinade.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours for enhanced flavor.
  3. In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  4. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and lightly golden.
  5. Add ginger paste and garlic paste to the skillet, and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw aroma subsides.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, and add the red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Stir well and cook for a minute to release the flavors.
  7. Pour in the tomato puree, stirring continuously to combine the spices with the sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Add the marinated chicken (along with any remaining marinade) to the skillet and mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
  9. Cover the skillet and cook on medium-low heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
  10. Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt according to your taste, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  11. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice.

With this quick and easy butter chicken recipe, you can satisfy your cravings for this flavorful Indian dish in no time. The creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices pairs perfectly with tender chicken, creating a delightful combination of flavors. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or simply looking for a fuss-free recipe, this easy version of butter chicken will not disappoint. Treat yourself to the deliciousness of butter chicken and enjoy a taste of Indian cuisine at home with minimal effort.

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