This butter chicken recipe combines traditional Indian flavors with a simplified cooking method perfect for home cooks. The two-step cooking process—first baking the marinated chicken, then simmering in a creamy sauce—ensures tender meat and deep flavor development. Don't rush the sauce-building steps, as each layer adds complexity to this beloved dish.

1. Step 1

   In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

2. Step 2

   When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange marinated chicken pieces on the rack, leaving space between pieces. Bake for 15 minutes until edges begin to brown but chicken is not fully cooked.

3. Step 3

   While chicken is baking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Step 5

   Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, until it darkens slightly. Add tomato sauce, remaining 1 teaspoon garam masala, cayenne pepper, sugar, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Step 6

   Transfer the sauce to a blender and carefully blend until smooth (or use an immersion blender). Return the sauce to the pan and stir in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.

7. Step 7

   Add the partially cooked chicken pieces to the sauce, including any juices from the baking sheet. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender.

8. Step 8

   Cut the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and stir into the sauce until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

9. Step 9

   Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. Butter chicken pairs perfectly with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

For a more authentic experience, you can replace the baking step by cooking the marinated chicken in a very hot cast iron skillet or grill pan to mimic tandoor cooking. For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with additional yogurt stirred in at the end of cooking.