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Easy Butter Chicken

This Easy Butter Chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, perfect for serving with rice or naan.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch ginger grated
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes about 14 ounces
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar to balance acidity
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped

Method
 

Cooking the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.
Making the Sauce
  1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir to combine.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and remaining butter. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serving
  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  2. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6g

Notes

For a spicier version, add red chili powder to taste. Adjust the cream quantity for a richer sauce.

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