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Indian Butter Chicken


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  • Author: Elizabeth
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Indian Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy dish full of bold flavors, featuring tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce with a touch of coconut milk. This aromatic curry is perfect for pairing with fluffy rice or warm naan bread and brings the authentic taste of India to your dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, small diced

  • 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tablespoon garam masala

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander

  • 1 teaspoon curry powder

  • 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into ¾-inch chunks

  • 3 ounces tomato paste

  • 3 ounces red curry paste

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk

  • Rice or naan for serving

  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish


Instructions

  • Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  • Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

  • Stir in grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  • Add garam masala, chili powder, mustard seeds, ground coriander, and curry powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the spices’ aromas.

  • Add chicken chunks to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned on all sides.

  • Stir in tomato paste and red curry paste, mixing well to coat the chicken.

  • Add salt, black pepper, and coconut milk, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

  • Reduce heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

  • Serve the butter chicken over rice or with naan, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add more chili powder or fresh chopped chilies.

  • You can substitute the chicken breast with thighs for a juicier texture.

  • Add a squeeze of lime for a fresh zing just before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian