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Best Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Name: Best Easy Butter Chicken Recipe
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 240 g
Ingredients: boneless skinless chicken thighs 1.5 lbs; unsalted butter 4 tbsp; yellow onion 1 medium; canned crushed tomatoes 1.5 cups; heavy cream 0.5 cup; garlic cloves 4 cloves; fresh ginger 2 tbsp; garam masala 2 tsp; ground cumin 1 tsp; chili powder 1 tsp; turmeric 0.5 tsp; kosher salt 1 tsp; black pepper 0.25 tsp

Butter chicken is India's most beloved creamy tomato-based chicken curry, rich in protein and perfect for a satisfying family dinner. This high protein chicken dish pairs beautifully with naan or rice and can fit into a 1500 calorie meal plan.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 350 kcal

#high protein #diabetic friendly

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

boneless skinless chicken thighs 1.5 lbs
unsalted butter 4 tbsp
yellow onion 1 medium
canned crushed tomatoes 1.5 cups
heavy cream 0.5 cup

Seasonings/Sauce

garlic cloves 4 cloves
fresh ginger 2 tbsp
garam masala 2 tsp
ground cumin 1 tsp
chili powder 1 tsp
turmeric 0.5 tsp
kosher salt 1 tsp
black pepper 0.25 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 14 g 16%

Protein 29 g 33%

Fat 18 g 51%

Serving size 240g

Cooking steps

1

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, then season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and pepper.
2

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add the chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until just golden. Remove and set aside (the chicken will finish cooking in the sauce).
3

In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
4

Stir in garam masala, cumin, chili powder, turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Sauté spices for 1 minute to release aromas, taking care not to burn.
5

Add crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
6

Lower the heat to medium-low, return chicken (and juices) to the pan, cover, and simmer gently for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
7

Stir in heavy cream and simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed. Do not let the sauce boil after adding cream.
8

Serve hot with naan or rice, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient that gives butter chicken its signature flavor?

The defining ingredient in butter chicken is the combination of garam masala with butter—these create the iconic rich, savory, and aromatic base. Crushed tomatoes and cream complete the creamy, tomato-forward sauce that makes this dish so beloved.

Q. How should I control the heat when making this recipe?

Start by searing the chicken at medium-high heat to lock in the juices, then reduce to medium for sautéing aromatics and spices without burning them. Simmer the sauce gently over medium-low heat for tenderness, and avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.

Q. How do I keep the chicken tender in butter chicken?

Sear the chicken only until lightly browned, then finish cooking it gently in the simmering sauce. This prevents the chicken from becoming dry or overcooked, while ensuring it stays juicy and soaks up the curry’s flavors.

Q. What’s the nutrition breakdown for this butter chicken per serving?

Each 240g serving provides about 350 kcal, with 29g protein (33% of calories), 14g carbs (16%), and 18g fat (51%). This makes it a high-protein dish that’s balanced for many dietary needs—including those watching carbohydrate intake.

Best Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

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