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Creamy, Authentic & Irresistible! Classic Butter Chicken Recipe (Ready in 45 Minutes!)

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Craving the rich, velvety goodness of Indian takeout? This Classic Butter Chicken recipe delivers tender chicken in a spiced tomato-cream sauce that’s easy to make at home—healthier and more flavorful than your local restaurant! Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the magic of Indian cuisine!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-quality taste – without the heavy cream or butter overload!
Ready in 45 minutes – faster than delivery!
Healthier twist – lighter but still luxuriously creamy!
Kid-approved – mild, aromatic spices for all palates!
Freezer-friendly – make a big batch for later!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4-6)

• For the Marinade:
• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cubed
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken and coat evenly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).

Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan. Sear chicken in batches until golden. Set aside.

Make the Sauce

• Sauté onion in remaining butter until soft. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.
• Blend sauce until smooth (optional for silky texture).

Combine & Simmer

• Return sauce to the pan. Stir in cream and cooked chicken. Simmer for 15 minutes on low heat.

Garnish & Serve!

• Top with cilantro. Serve with basmati rice or naan!

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

(Based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 10g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg

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Cook’s Notes

Marinate longer – 24 hours = maximum flavor and tenderness!
Adjust spice level – add cayenne or chili powder for heat!
Dairy-free? – Use coconut milk and vegan butter.
Freeze leftovers – store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Skip blending – leave sauce chunky for a rustic texture.

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Serving Ideas

• Classic Pairing: Fluffy basmati rice + garlic naan
• Low-Carb Twist: Cauliflower rice + cucumber raita
• Party Platter: Serve with samosas + mango chutney
• Meal Prep: Portion into containers with steamed veggies!

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Why Classic Butter Chicken?

This recipe is comfort in a bowl! The yogurt-marinated chicken stays juicy, while the tomato-cream sauce balances spice and sweetness. It’s gluten-free adaptable, dairy-free optional, and perfect for beginners—swap in tofu for a vegetarian twist or add spinach for extra greens.

Tag us in your #ButterChickenMagic pics! Tried it? Share your spin below!

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Classic Butter Chicken Recipe, Healthy Indian Recipes, 45-Minute Meals, Gluten-Free Indian Food, Meal Prep Chicken, Dairy-Free Butter Chicken

Love this? Try our [Chicken Tikka Masala] or [Vegetable Korma] next!