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Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken


  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Discover a creamy, easy Butter Chicken recipe bursting with rich spices and plant-based butter for a flavorful, satisfying meal anytime. This dish brings together tender chicken pieces smothered in a velvety tomato-based sauce that sings with warmth and depth. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this Butter Chicken will quickly become your go-to for comfort food with a vibrant twist.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
  • 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Sauce Base

  • 3 tablespoons plant-based butter
  • 2 tablespoons garlic and ginger paste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 400g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric

Finishing Ingredients

  • 200ml coconut cream
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Natural gelling agent (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken pieces with garlic-ginger paste, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes so the spices penetrate and tenderize the meat for enhanced flavor.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat plant-based butter in a wide pan until melted, then add the marinated chicken. Cook on medium-high heat until it’s lightly browned and mostly cooked through. This seals in the juices and builds a subtle caramelization.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, add more plant-based butter, then sauté the garlic-ginger paste until fragrant. Stir in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, and turmeric. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors blend and the sauce thicken beautifully.
  4. Finish with Coconut Cream and Apple Cider Vinegar: Slowly stir in the coconut cream for a velvety texture, followed by apple cider vinegar to brighten the sauce. Add the chicken back to the pan and simmer gently for another 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to soak into the meat.
  5. Optional Thicken with Natural Gelling Agent: If you want an extra luscious sauce, sprinkle a small pinch of natural gelling agent dissolved in water and stir well until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and tender results.
  • Toast garam masala and cumin powder briefly before adding to boost aroma.
  • Simmer the sauce slowly on low heat to deepen flavors and thicken naturally.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for brightness and freshness.
  • Adjust red chili powder and garam masala to tailor spice levels to your preference.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop Cooking
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Butter Chicken, Plant-based Butter Chicken, Indian Inspired, Creamy Chicken Curry, Easy Dinner, Gluten Free