Delicious and Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the rich and flavorful Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Chicken Makhani. This creamy and delicious dish features tender chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, cooked in a buttery tomato cream sauce. Serve it with fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread for a satisfying and authentic Indian meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, red chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drain off. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and garam masala, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Garnish the Indian Butter Chicken with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

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