Quick Butter Chicken

Ingredients

• 500 g Chicken thighs, boneless, skinless (Cut into bite‑size pieces; can substitute chicken breast)
• 1 tsp Thai salt (or kosher salt) (Coarse sea salt works well)
• 2 tsp Garam masala (Store‑bought blend)
• 1 tsp Smoked paprika (Adds smoky depth)
• 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper (Adjust to desired heat)
• 2 cloves Garlic (Grated)
• 1 tsp Fresh ginger (Grated (about 1 tbsp peeled))
• 2 tbsp Plain full‑fat yogurt (For marinating)
• 2 tbsp Unsalted butter (Divided)
• 1 medium Onion (Diced; serves as aromatics)
• 400 g Canned diced tomatoes (No added salt; one 14‑oz can)
• 60 ml Heavy cream (¼ cup; adds richness)
• 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (Chopped, for garnish (optional))

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken

   In a mixing bowl combine chicken pieces, Thai salt, garam masala, smoked paprika, cayenne, grated garlic, grated ginger, and yogurt. Mix until every piece is evenly coated.

   Time: PT5M

2. Cook the chicken

   Heat 1 tbsp butter in the skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 375°F

3. Sauté aromatics

   In the same skillet add the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add diced onion and cook 3 minutes, stirring, until translucent. Sprinkle a pinch of the garam masala, smoked paprika, and cayenne used earlier.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: 350°F

4. Build the tomato‑cream sauce

   Add the canned diced tomatoes, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil separates slightly.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 300°F

5. Finish with cream and combine chicken

   Reduce heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and season to taste with salt if needed. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and heat for 2 minutes just to re‑warm and coat the pieces.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: 250°F

6. Serve

   Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or naan.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

500

Protein

30 g

Carbohydrates

15 g

Fat

35 g

Fiber

3 g