Name: Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce: 1 Secret for a Rich Taste
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Breast (or boneless skinless thighs); 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Turmeric; 1 tsp Cumin; 1 tsp Coriander Powder; 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (or ghee); 4 cloves Minced Garlic; 1 cup Pureed Tomatoes; 1 tbsp Garam Masala; 1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream); 1 lb Frozen Fries

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Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce has been a revelation in my kitchen, transforming ordinary weeknights into something special. I remember the first time I tried making it; the aroma of garlic and spices filled my home, instantly transporting me to my favorite Indian restaurant. My family couldn’t believe how easy it was to create such a rich and creamy garlic butter chicken sauce right in our own kitchen. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a perfect blend of comfort and exotic flavors that makes me feel like a culinary wizard. This easy ground turkey dinner brings joy and incredible taste to the table every time. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

I promise you’ll fall in love with this recipe for so many reasons. It’s truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners!

The rich, creamy texture combined with the aromatic garlic creates an unforgettable taste experience.
It’s an easy butter chicken garlic sauce recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
This dish is incredibly satisfying and comforting, perfect for any time of year.
Making this easy butter chicken garlic sauce at home is much more budget-friendly than ordering takeout.
It’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to delicious Indian-inspired flavors.
You can easily customize the spice level to suit everyone’s preferences.

Ingredients for Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

Gathering the right garlic butter chicken sauce ingredients is key to achieving that authentic, rich flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need for this incredible dish:

1 lb Chicken Breast (or boneless skinless thighs) – I prefer boneless, skinless thighs for extra tenderness, but breast works great too.
1 tsp Salt – basic seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
1 tsp Turmeric – gives that beautiful golden color and earthy notes.
1 tsp Cumin – adds a warm, aromatic depth.
1 tsp Coriander Powder – a staple in Indian cooking, offering a citrusy, savory note.
4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (or ghee) – this is where the “butter” in butter chicken comes from, providing richness.
4 cloves Minced Garlic – the star of our Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce, bringing incredible aroma and flavor.
1 cup Pureed Tomatoes – forms the base of our creamy sauce.
1 tbsp Garam Masala – a fragrant spice blend that defines Indian cuisine.
1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream) – for that luscious, creamy texture.
1 lb Frozen Fries – my secret weapon for a fun side, but feel free to swap for naan!

How to Make Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

Making this incredible dish is simpler than you might think, and I’ll walk you through each step of the Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce preparation. Get ready for your kitchen to smell absolutely amazing!

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine your chicken pieces with 1 tsp Salt, 1 tsp Turmeric, 1 tsp Cumin, and 1 tsp Coriander Powder. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Now, cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken.
Step 2: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven according to the instructions on your frozen fries package. Usually, this is around 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by spreading the fries in a single layer.
Step 3: In a large skillet or pot, melt 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add the marinated chicken. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking it through completely; it will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add your 4 cloves Minced Garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. This is where the magic of our Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce really begins to develop.
Step 5: Pour in the 1 cup Pureed Tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 tbsp Garam Masala. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld. You’ll notice the color deepening and the aroma becoming even more enticing.
Step 6: Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the simmering tomato mixture. Pour in 1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option). Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is coated in the creamy sauce. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened to your liking. This completes the main Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce preparation.
Step 7: While your sauce is simmering, bake the fries in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Step 8: Once everything is ready, serve your delicious butter chicken with the crispy fries on the side. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy this rich and flavorful meal!

Delicious Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce served with rice and naan bread, showcasing its rich, creamy texture and vibrant color

Pro Tips for the Best Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate this dish. These expert tips will help you create the most flavorful and luscious Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce every time.

Always marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes; this allows the spices to deeply infuse the meat.
Don’t rush the garlic! Sauté it gently until fragrant, not burnt, to get the best flavor for your sauce.
Use good quality heavy cream or full-fat coconut cream for that rich, velvety texture.
Let the sauce simmer for the full 10 minutes after adding the cream; this helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
Adjust the garam masala to your taste – some prefer a stronger spice profile than others.

What’s the secret to perfect Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce?

The real secret to an authentic butter chicken garlic sauce lies in layering the flavors. Marinating the chicken, browning it before adding it to the sauce, and simmering the tomato base with garam masala are crucial steps. This builds a deep, complex taste that makes the sauce truly shine.

Can I make Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce?

To avoid common pitfalls, don’t overcook the chicken initially, or it will become dry. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic; keep the heat at medium and stir constantly. Lastly, don’t skimp on the cream; it’s essential for that signature rich and creamy texture in your Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce.

Close-up of creamy Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce simmering in a skillet, showing tender chicken pieces and rich texture

Best Ways to Serve Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

Once you’ve perfected your Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce, the next step is enjoying it! I love how versatile this dish is, and I have a few favorite ways to serve it that really highlight its rich flavors. Of course, serving it with crispy fries, as I’ve suggested, is a fun and delicious twist that my family adores.

For a more traditional experience, I highly recommend serving this creamy sauce with warm, fluffy naan bread or a side of fragrant basmati rice. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that incredible Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce for dipping. You can also pair it with a refreshing cucumber raita to balance the richness. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Nutrition Facts for Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious meal. Here’s an estimate per serving, based on the ingredients in our Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce recipe:

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 530 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 720mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and preparation methods used for your Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

One of the best things about making homemade butter chicken garlic sauce is that it stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep! After you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftovers cool completely to room temperature before storing. I usually transfer it to an airtight container.

This delicious sauce will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you’re looking to enjoy your butter chicken garlic sauce even further down the line, it freezes exceptionally well. Simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and it will last for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. A little extra splash of cream or water can help restore its creamy texture if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce

What is butter chicken garlic sauce?

Butter chicken garlic sauce is a rich, creamy, and aromatic Indian-inspired gravy that combines tender chicken with a tomato-based sauce, infused generously with garlic, butter, and a blend of aromatic spices like garam masala. It’s known for its velvety texture and savory, slightly sweet flavor profile that makes it incredibly popular.

Can I make butter chicken garlic sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of this delicious butter chicken garlic sauce, simply substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese), chickpeas, or even roasted vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potatoes. The sauce itself is already vegetarian, so it’s a very easy adaptation.

How can I make my butter chicken garlic sauce spicier?

If you prefer a spicier kick in your butter chicken garlic sauce, there are a few ways to achieve it. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili powder along with the other spices. Another option is to include a finely minced green chili or two when you sauté the garlic. Adjust to your personal heat preference!

What is the best way to thicken butter chicken garlic sauce if it’s too thin?

If your butter chicken garlic sauce turns out a bit thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! You can easily thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then stir this slurry into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations of Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce, you might be ready to explore some exciting variations. I love experimenting in the kitchen, and this sauce offers so many possibilities to tailor it to different tastes or dietary needs.

Dairy-Free Delight: For those avoiding dairy, simply swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream. It provides a similar richness and creamy texture, adding a subtle, delicious coconut undertone to your Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce.
Smoky Flavor Boost: If you enjoy a deeper, smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika along with the other spices when you’re preparing the chicken. This really elevates the aroma and taste.
Vegetarian Twist: Easily transform this into a vegetarian meal by replacing the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese), chickpeas, or even roasted cauliflower. The rich sauce pairs beautifully with these ingredients.
Spicy Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce: For heat seekers, don’t hesitate to add finely chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce while it simmers. Adjust the amount to achieve your perfect level of spice.

Butter Chicken Garlic Sauce: 1 Secret for a Rich Taste

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Author: Margaret
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This recipe features tender chicken in a creamy, garlicky sauce, perfectly paired with crispy fries. It’s a comforting Indian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb Chicken Breast (or boneless skinless thighs)
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Turmeric
1 tsp Cumin
1 tsp Coriander Powder
4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (or ghee)
4 cloves Minced Garlic
1 cup Pureed Tomatoes
1 tbsp Garam Masala
1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream)
1 lb Frozen Fries

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
In a skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add pureed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in garam masala and thicken for about 5 minutes.
Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream, stir to combine, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
Preheat your oven according to frozen fries package instructions. Spread fries on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and crispy (20-25 minutes).
Serve butter chicken with crispy fries on the side, garnished with chopped cilantro.