Creative Spiced Butter Chicken

Name: Creative Spiced Butter Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 1/2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 cup tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

🕒 Prep: 20 min

🔥 Cook: 45 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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This Creative Spiced Butter Chicken is an exciting twist on a classic favorite. With a blend of aromatic spices and a rich, creamy sauce, it's perfect for those looking to spice up their dinner routine. Let's dive into a dish that's sure to impress without requiring a culinary degree!

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Ingredients for Creative Spiced Butter Chicken

Chicken thighs are used because they remain juicy and tender throughout cooking. Greek yogurt in the marinade adds tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken. A dash of lime juice brightens the flavors, while ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and smoked paprika create a robust, spiced profile. Onions, garlic, and ginger build the aromatic base, and the tomato puree adds depth. Finally, heavy cream and unsalted butter make the sauce luxurious, with fresh cilantro providing a pop of color and freshness at the end.

Tips & Tricks

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you have the time.
Use a mix of chicken thighs and breasts if you prefer a leaner dish; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Be sure to let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This spiced butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber salad complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish dairy-free?: Yes, substitute the Greek yogurt with a coconut-based yogurt and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Is this recipe spicy?: It's more aromatic than spicy, but you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.
Can I freeze leftovers?: Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Creative Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Begin by creating your marinade in a large bowl. Combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth, then add the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least two hours.

Once marinated, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions turn translucent, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, searing each side until you achieve a golden-brown crust.

Pour in the tomato puree and give everything a good stir. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Reduce the heat to low and slowly fold in the heavy cream and butter. Stir until the sauce smooths out and becomes rich and creamy. Let it simmer gently for an additional 15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your masterpiece!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Perfect balance of spices that tantalizes the taste buds.
Rich, creamy texture that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests.
Marinating ahead saves time on busy evenings.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 tbsp fresh lime juice

2 tsp ground cumin

2 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp ground turmeric

1 1/2 tsp garam masala

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

1 cup tomato puree

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sauté until onions are translucent.

4. Add marinated chicken to the skillet, searing on both sides until golden brown.

5. Pour tomato puree into the skillet, stir, and let simmer for 10 minutes.

6. Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream and butter, stirring until the sauce is rich and creamy.