Description
A rich, creamy, and flavorful butter chicken recipe that is quick and healthy, ready in just 30 minutes. Uses Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup tomato puree (240ml)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (120ml)
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth (120ml)
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onions finely, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Measure out your spices and liquids.
- Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their aroma.
- Pour in the tomato puree and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring to coat. Cover and cook for 8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the Greek yogurt and lemon juice gently to avoid curdling. The sauce should be creamy and smooth.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Serve immediately with basmati rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Notes
Use fresh ginger and garlic for best flavor. Toast spices to enhance aroma. Add yogurt off heat to prevent curdling. Adjust chili powder to control heat. Leftovers taste better the next day. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water. Can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach at the end.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 420
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 38
Keywords: butter chicken, healthy butter chicken, easy butter chicken, homemade butter chicken, quick dinner, Indian chicken recipe, Greek yogurt butter chicken