Savoury & Sweet Butter Chicken

Rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with savoury spices and a hint of sweetness.
This Savoury & Sweet Butter Chicken is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, spiced tomato-cream sauce. A touch of sweetness balances the bold spices, creating a harmonious and flavour-packed meal. Serve with naan or basmati rice for a truly satisfying experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup tomato purée (or canned crushed tomatoes)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
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Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
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Toast the Spices: Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Toast the spices for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Make the Sauce: Add the tomato purée and honey, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Add Cream and Chicken: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, then return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the flavours meld.
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Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
This Savoury & Sweet Butter Chicken strikes the perfect balance between rich, creamy textures and a hint of sweetness. Bursting with aromatic spices, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting, ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Optional Additions:
- Nutty Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of almond or cashew butter for extra creaminess.
- Brighten the Flavour: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Elevate the Sweetness: Use dried apricots or golden raisins for a naturally sweet touch.