Description
A creamy, comforting butter chicken dish with tender marinated chicken thighs in a rich tomato-cream sauce, ready in about 45 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp curry powder, plus extra for sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Naan bread and steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, melt 1 tbsp butter in the same skillet, and scrape up browned bits. Add garlic, onion, and a pinch of salt; sauté until translucent.
- Add tomato sauce and sugar, and simmer for 2 minutes. Return chicken to the pan, pour in heavy cream, and stir until the sauce is orange in color.
- Season with black pepper, cayenne (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and more salt to taste. Simmer on low for 10 minutes.
- Stir in remaining butter until melted for a silky finish. Garnish with parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with naan and steamed rice.
Notes
- Chicken breasts, turkey, or tofu can replace thighs for variations.
- Coconut cream or cashew cream can be used instead of heavy cream for dairy-free options.
- Adjust cayenne to control spice level.
- Can be made a day ahead and reheated gently.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg