Irresistible Halal Butter Chicken Recipe

Name: Irresistible Halal Butter Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cloves fresh garlic; 1-inch piece fresh ginger; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; Spices: cumin, coriander, garam masala; Sugar, salt & pepper; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Recipe By:

Hannah Mitchell

Posted:

April 9, 2025

Updated:

April 9, 2025

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Not all heroes wear capes; some wield spoons and ladles. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken bathed in a silky, spiced tomato sauce that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” That’s right—today we’re diving into the world of Butter Chicken. It’s the dish that turns an ordinary Tuesday night into a festive occasion and leaves everyone asking for seconds (or thirds).

Now imagine walking into your kitchen as the aroma of warm spices fills the air, drawing family members and friends like moths to a flame. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, Butter Chicken is here to save the day—no cape required. Get ready to whip up this deliciously creamy dish that even your mother-in-law would approve of.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Making butter chicken at home is easier than you think
It features rich flavors that will impress any guest
The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table setting
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair well with rice or naan!

I remember the first time I made butter chicken for my friends; their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took their first bite.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves that promise great flavor—garlic is not just a seasoning; it’s life!
Fresh Ginger: A small piece adds zest and warmth; be sure to peel it before grating.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over your dish’s saltiness.
Canned Tomato Puree: Choose a high-quality option; it forms the base of our luscious sauce.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes everything dreamier and richer—who doesn’t love cream?
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): These are essential for that authentic Indian flavor explosion.
Sugar: Just a pinch balances out the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Basic but crucial; season to taste throughout cooking.
Cilantro Leaves (for garnish): Fresh cilantro adds color and brightness—don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: Begin by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine yogurt with spices like cumin and garam masala. Toss in the chicken until every piece is well-coated. Allow this to marinate for at least 30 minutes—this is where flavor magic happens!

Sear the Chicken: Heat some butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Add your marinated chicken pieces in batches so you don’t overcrowd them. Cook until golden brown on all sides; they should sizzle like they’re dancing.

Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and toss in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant—trust me; your house will smell divine! Pour in your tomato puree along with sugar and additional spices. Let it simmer while stirring occasionally.

Add Creamy Goodness: Once your sauce has thickened slightly (about 10 minutes), reduce heat again and stir in heavy cream slowly. You want it velvety smooth—like wearing silk pajamas on a Sunday morning.

Combine & Simmer Again: Add back your seared chicken into the sauce mixture and let it simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes until everything melds together beautifully. Taste-test here; adjust salt or spice levels if needed.

Serve & Garnish: Finally, scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls with fluffy rice or warm naan beside it. Top with fresh cilantro leaves for that Instagram-ready finish!

Enjoy each bite of your homemade butter chicken as you bask in compliments from friends and family alike!

You Must Know

This Butter Chicken recipe is a flavorful dish that will leave your taste buds dancing
The rich, creamy sauce combined with tender chicken makes it a favorite in many households
Perfect for serving over fluffy rice or with warm naan bread, it’s sure to impress!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then simmer in the sauce for ultimate tenderness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for paneer or tofu, or add veggies like peas for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat on the stove over low heat for best flavor retention.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh spices for maximum flavor; they make all the difference
Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor absorption and tenderness
Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning according to your preference

It was my cousin’s wedding when I first made Butter Chicken. Everyone loved it so much that I became the designated chef for family gatherings!

FAQs

FAQ

What is Butter Chicken made of?

Butter Chicken primarily consists of chicken, tomatoes, cream, and a blend of spices.

Can I make Butter Chicken vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is Butter Chicken halal?

Yes, if you use halal-certified chicken and avoid alcohol-based ingredients in the sauce.

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