Welcome to a quick and delightful culinary journey! Today, we'll show you how to prepare a classic Indian dish, Butter Chicken, in record time. Known for its creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken, this dish is a favorite around the world. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe will become one of your go-to recipes when you want something both delicious and speedy.
Ingredients
To whip up this delightful dish, you'll need:
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter (split into two portions)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream or cashew cream for a vegan version
- 2 green chilies, slit
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish
Preparation Steps
Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix the yogurt, garlic paste, ginger paste, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for better flavor absorption.
Cooking the Base
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate from the masala.
Adding the Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken along with any remaining marinade into the skillet. Cook on high heat for a few minutes to seal the chicken and then reduce heat to medium.
- Add the remaining butter, slit green chilies, and cook until the chicken is nearly done, stirring occasionally.
Finishing Touches
- Pour in the cream and stir to combine, letting it cook for another 5 minutes. The sauce should thicken and coat the chicken nicely.
- Adjust the seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving.
🍽 Note: For a vegan version, you can substitute heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut cream, and use paneer or tofu instead of chicken.
Tips for Perfection
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your chicken will be. Even 30 minutes can make a significant difference.
- Butter: Don’t skimp on the butter; it’s crucial for the rich flavor of Butter Chicken.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding or reducing the number of green chilies or chili powder.
- Creamy Sauce: If the sauce seems too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Butter Chicken hot with:
- Basmati rice
- Naan or Roti
- Salad or raita for a refreshing touch
In conclusion, this Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe offers a delicious taste of India with minimal effort. You've learned how to quickly prepare a flavorful dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. The key takeaways are the importance of marination, the balance of spices, and the luxurious touch of cream. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party, this recipe ensures you'll enjoy every bite of this Indian classic!
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just remember to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Bone-in chicken might take a bit longer to cook.
What can I substitute for heavy cream to make this dish lighter?
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You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt, light cream, or evaporated milk for a lighter version of the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk is an excellent alternative.
How long does Butter Chicken last when stored?
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Butter Chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Make sure it cools to room temperature before storing to avoid condensation which can lead to bacterial growth.
