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+ servings
Butter Chicken Sauce

Creamy Butter Chicken Sauce for Ultimate Comfort Food

This creamy Butter Chicken Sauce is a heartwarming comfort food that transforms any meal into a cozy gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can substitute with salted butter
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil Can use canola or grapeseed oil
  • 1 medium Onion No substitutions recommended
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh is preferred, but garlic powder can work
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Ground ginger can be used as a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin No direct substitute, but coriander can enhance flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander No substitutions needed
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can be used for a different flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala No real substitute available
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric Curry powder can be utilized as an alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust based on spice preference
  • 1 cup Tomato Puree High-quality versions deliver richer flavor
  • 1 cup Crushed Tomatoes High-quality versions deliver richer flavor
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Can be omitted for sugar-free option
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • as needed Water For adjusting consistency

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the chicken dry and seasoning with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of neutral oil. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbling. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30-45 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, ground turmeric, and chili powder into the skillet. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring consistently.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of tomato puree and 1 cup of crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 1 teaspoon of sugar, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 4-5 minutes.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Cover and let it simmer on low for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  7. Serve the Butter Chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, paired with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 5gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This sauce can be made in advance and stored. Perfect for meal prep.

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