Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Truly the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!) is your ticket to a rich, creamy Indian curry experience right at home. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato cream sauce offers layers of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, making butter chicken at home is a breeze.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a holiday feast, this dish fits right in.
• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy and satisfying, this recipe delivers warmth and comfort in every bite.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen when reheated, making for delicious lunch options.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pan: This allows for even cooking and enough space to sauté all the ingredients together.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board makes chopping onions, garlic, and ginger quick and safe.
• Sharp knife: A good knife helps you cut ingredients precisely, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your butter chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut in 1 – 2 cubes)
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt

For the Curry Sauce

• ¼ cup vegetable oil (or ghee)
• 2 ½ cups chopped onion (about 2 medium-large)
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp minced ginger
• 3 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne
• 2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1 1/4 cups diced tomatoes (no-salt-added if canned)
• ¾ cup heavy cream (also called whipping cream, double cream, thickened cream or 35% m.f. cream depending on where you live)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp cilantro (chopped, to garnish – optional)

How to Make Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken cubes with lemon juice, minced garlic, garam masala, and kosher salt in a mixing bowl. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil or ghee. Once hot, add chopped onions. Sauté until they turn golden brown and soft.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in minced garlic and ginger to the onions. Cook for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Add garam masala, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt to the skillet. Mix well and cook for an additional two minutes to toast the spices.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes

Pour in diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about five minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Incorporate Chicken

Add the marinated chicken into the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through—around 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Creamy Finish

Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and butter until fully combined. Let it simmer gently for another five minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot with naan or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever!

How to Serve Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Serving the best Butter Chicken is an art. The creamy sauce and tender chicken are perfect for pairing with a variety of sides that enhance the flavors of this beloved dish.

With Warm Naan

• Naan is the classic choice. Its soft and chewy texture is perfect for scooping up the rich butter sauce.

Over Basmati Rice

• Fluffy basmati rice complements the spices in butter chicken. It absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.

With Raita

• A cooling cucumber raita balances the heat of the dish. The yogurt-based dip adds a refreshing element that enhances every bite.

Accompanied by Salad

• A simple salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions provides crunch and freshness, making it a perfect contrast to the creamy curry.

Topped with Fresh Cilantro

• Garnishing your dish with cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor. This herb elevates the presentation and enhances the overall taste.

How to Perfect Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Perfecting your Butter Chicken takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Marinate your chicken: Allowing the chicken to soak in lemon juice, garlic, and garam masala for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices deliver better flavor than pre-ground ones. Make sure your garam masala is aromatic for maximum impact.

• Control heat levels: Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with less if you’re unsure and add more as needed.

• Simmer slowly: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps meld the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste profile. Patience pays off!

Best Side Dishes for Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Pairing side dishes with your butter chicken can elevate the meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Jeera Rice: Fragrant cumin rice enhances the dish’s flavors while providing an aromatic backdrop for butter chicken.

2. Palak Paneer: This creamy spinach dish offers a delicious contrast in both flavor and texture, making it an excellent companion.

3. Aloo Gobi: A spiced cauliflower and potato dish that brings warmth and heartiness, complementing the butter chicken perfectly.

4. Chickpea Salad: A refreshing salad made from chickpeas, tomatoes, and onions adds protein and crunch while balancing richness.

5. Onion Bhaji: Crispy onion fritters provide a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the creamy curry.

6. Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney offers a wonderful contrast to savory flavors, adding sweetness that brightens every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Skipping marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Allow it to sit in lemon juice, garlic, and garam masala for at least 30 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for tender pieces by cooking just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Everyone’s palate is different. Start with less cayenne pepper and add more if desired, so you can customize the heat level.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Quality matters in this dish. Use fresh spices and high-fat cream for a richer flavor that really makes it better than a restaurant!
• Ignoring sauce consistency: The sauce should be creamy but not too thick or runny. Adjust with water or cream as needed while cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

• Place cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever.

How can I make this Butter Chicken recipe healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or yogurt for a lighter version while maintaining creaminess.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. Adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What do I serve with Butter Chicken?

Serve it with warm naan, steamed rice, or even quinoa for a complete meal.

Is this Butter Chicken recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I adjust the spice levels in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily modify spices like cayenne and garam masala based on your preference for heat.

Final Thoughts

The Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or substituting ingredients. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or impressing guests, this dish will surely satisfy everyone’s cravings. Give this recipe a try today!