Garlic Butter Chicken is one of those showstoppers of Indian food, from richness in butter to boldness due to Indian spices combined on a plate. It is also a very good means whereby one who is a beginner in the cooking aspects of Indian food will be enabled to know the basics.
This garlic butter chicken Indian recipe comes in quite handy on busy weekdays and is enjoyed much like a restaurant-style meal when prepared at home.
Garlic Butter Chicken Indian Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- ½ tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
For the Marinate
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ tbsp turmeric powder
- ½ tbsp red chili powder
- ¼ tbsp garam masala
For the Souce
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 green chili, finely chopped ( optional )
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup butter cubed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- ½ tbsp red chili powder
- salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Why Garlic Butter Chicken?
Garlic butter chicken is one of those dishes that, for good reason, has withstood the test of time. This tasty recipe will marry tender chicken with a rich, buttery sauce and fragrant garlic-comforting yet pampering-which will make this recipe fit any occasion that may arise, from a quick weeknight meal to the highlight of a delicious dinner party.
One of those recipes whose magic lies in their simplicity is fresh garlic, sautéed in butter that pleases crowds of all sorts: foodies and gourmets alike.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Chicken
- Marinate the chicken: Combine chicken pieces, salt, pepper, and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Make the marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala.
- Marinate and rest: Add the marinated chicken to the yogurt mixture and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
Garlic Butter Chicken Indian Recipe Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s what you’ll need
Step 1.
- Excessively saute the spices: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat add onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Saute until the onions are golden brown and the spices are fragrant.
Step 2.
- Building flavor base: Add the marinated chicken and cook until it gets browned on all sides.
Step 3.
- Make the creamy sauce: Add to the heavy cream and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce becomes thicker.
Step 4.
- Add flavor and seasoning: Add cubed butter, lemon juice, garam masala, and red chili powder. Mix thoroughly until the butter has fully melted and the sauce achieves a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 5.
- Perfect seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning by adding salt as needed. Add your cooked chicken to this sauce and mix well. This way garlic butter chicken Indian recipe is ready.
Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken Recipes
Your garlic butter chicken is ready to serve and enjoy! Here are a few suggestions to go along with this delectable dish.
- Naan or Roti: Soft, warm naan or roti is just perfect for the purpose of sopping up that rich sauce.
- Jeera Rice: Fragrant jeera rice gives an extra touch of class to your meal.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish that will help balance the richness of the curry.
- Salad: A green salad may be what you need to cleanse the palate.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
- Marination Magic: Marinate the chicken overnight to let the flavors penetrate into the chicken, which would make the recipe tender and succulent.
- Creamy Sauce Secrets: Full-fat cream would give a thick and creamier sauce.
- Personalize the spice level: This recipe uses red chili powder and green chilies; you can adjust according to your preference.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooking the chicken will dry it and make it hard. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve Immediately: It is always best when garlic butter chicken is served immediately after it is cooked to have the best taste and texture.
Storage for Garlic Butter Chicken
Garlic butter chicken is quite easy to store, and it tastes amazing as leftovers too. If you end up with extras or want to meal prep, these tips will come in handy.
Refrigeration Tips
- Thaw first: Let the chicken and gravy cool to room temperature. Refrigerating hot food right away can ruin the flavor and texture.
- Use an airtight container: Transfer the chicken and gravy to an airtight container. This will keep your food fresh and moist.
- Shelf life: Refrigerated garlic butter chicken will stay safe and delicious for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Tips
- Shape: If you’re freezing, divide the chicken and sauce into smaller portions. It will be easier to reheat and the rest of the food won’t go to waste.
- Freezer-safe bags or containers: Use high-quality freezer bags for leak-proof containers.
- Freezer life: Garlic butter chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Indian recipe is an easy and succulent dish for any level of cooking-from a beginner to a well-seasoned chef. The richness of the butter of this dish goes in tandem with the bold flavors of the Indian spices. You can easily make restaurant-quality dishes right at home by following the step-by-step process.
- What’s better than the recipe? You make it to your liking: spicier, creamier, or even dairy-free. This is one of those recipes that, when made once, will return to your dinner table again and again and always wow your family and friends.
- So now, get your ingredients, put on an apron, and get ready to taste some luscious garlic butter chicken.
Nutrition
Total Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Sodium: 830mg | Total Carbohydrate: 7g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Total Sugars: 1g | Protein: 30g | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg | Potassium: 572mg
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?
Boneless chicken thighs are ideal as they remain juicy during cooking.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk or cashew paste for a creamy consistency without dairy.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.