Easy Halal Butter Chicken Recipe for Everyone

Butter chicken has a magical way of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Imagine tender pieces of chicken swimming in a velvety sauce so rich it could make even a superhero weak at the knees. The aromas wafting from your kitchen will have everyone asking what’s cooking long before they sit down to dinner.

Now picture this: it’s a chilly Sunday evening, and you just want something cozy and heartwarming. You gather around the table with family or friends, plates piled high with this creamy delight. The laughter and chatter flow as freely as the sauce over basmati rice. There’s something about butter chicken that turns an ordinary meal into a cherished memory.

Everyone loves a good story about food—like that time I made butter chicken for my best friend’s birthday party; let’s just say there were no leftovers!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for ample servings; feel free to substitute with thighs if you prefer more flavor.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for smoother texture in the sauce.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves to enhance flavors; minced garlic brings out the aroma beautifully.
• Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger instead of using powder for a zesty kick in every bite.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for balanced seasoning; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole tomatoes; they break down well when simmered, adding richness to your dish.
• Cream or Coconut Milk: Full-fat cream gives richness; coconut milk provides a lighter alternative.
• Spices (Garam Masala, Cumin, Turmeric): These spices create authentic flavor; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; season to taste throughout cooking.
• Cilantro (for garnish): Fresh cilantro brightens up your dish at the end; chop finely before sprinkling on top.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

The journey to delicious butter chicken begins now!

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and mincing garlic and ginger—this will set you up nicely for cooking chaos-free.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt about 4 tablespoons of butter until it bubbles. Add onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Add Chicken Pieces: Toss in bite-sized pieces of chicken breast into the skillet. Cook them until they turn white on all sides—about 7 minutes should do the trick.

Create That Sauce!: Stir in minced garlic and ginger along with spices like garam masala and cumin. Let everything mingle together until you can’t resist sniffing that heavenly aroma—around 2 minutes.

Toss In Tomatoes & Cream: Pour in canned tomatoes along with their juices and cream (or coconut milk). Stir well and bring it all to a gentle simmer; let it cook covered for about 15-20 minutes.

Final Touches And Garnish!: Taste your masterpiece and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Finish off by garnishing with fresh cilantro before serving—you want every plate looking Instagram-worthy!

Now you have created an exquisite buttery delight ready to serve over fluffy basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread!

Enjoy every creamy bite while basking in compliments from family or friends!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour for maximum flavor. Sear it until golden before adding the sauce, allowing everything to blend beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for paneer or tofu for a delightful vegetarian version. Customize with extra spices or fresh herbs based on your preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve its creamy texture.

Cooking this Butter Chicken reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious aromas wafting through the air. Everyone was always eager for seconds!

FAQ

Can I make Butter Chicken without dairy?

Yes, use coconut milk or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative.

What sides pair well with Butter Chicken?

Serve with basmati rice, naan bread, or a refreshing cucumber salad.

How do I make Butter Chicken spicier?

Add more chili powder or fresh green chilies during cooking for extra heat.

Print

Butter Chicken (halal, no alcohol)

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in this rich and creamy halal butter chicken, simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce for an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 can whole tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• Spices: garam masala, cumin, turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic and ginger.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté the onion until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add chicken pieces; cook until they turn white on all sides (about 7 minutes).
4. Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add canned tomatoes and cream (or coconut milk). Simmer covered for 15-20 minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper; garnish with cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate chicken for at least an hour before cooking. Swap chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.