Creamy Rich Comforting Protein Packed

Easy, Healthy Butter Chicken: A Cozy Family-Friendly Dish

These tender chicken pieces soak up the rich, spiced sauce of tamarind and yogurt, creating a meal that is both comforting and nutritious. In just a little over 30 minutes, you can have a healthy twist on the classic butter chicken, perfect for impressing your family or whipping up on a busy weeknight.

As I stood in my kitchen, savoring the fragrant spices wafting through the air, I felt a nostalgic warmth wrap around me. This recipe isn’t just any butter chicken , it’s my go-to dish when I want something delicious without the guilt. It’s been a hit with my family, who often request it on our dinner table. Let’s dive into how you can create this family-friendly meal, packed with flavor yet easy enough for any home cook.

Easy, Healthy Butter Chicken

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A cozy, family-friendly twist on classic butter chicken, packed with flavor and nutrition.

• Author: anytimesrecipegmail-com
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Healthy

Ingredients

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• 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup water

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Instructions

1. Place chicken cubes in a bowl or sealable plastic bag.
2. In another bowl, mix together tomato paste, 1/4 cup yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, ground coriander, salt, ground ginger, black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
3. Pour marinade over chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add canola oil. Sauté diced onion for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add marinated chicken and all the marinade to the skillet, sprinkle brown sugar on top, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in 1/2 cup yogurt and 1/2 cup water, lower heat to medium or medium-low, and let simmer for 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens to your liking.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot with additional sauce spooned over top.

Notes

Let the chicken marinate longer for improved flavor. Adjust cayenne for a milder heat. Use low-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Why This Cozy Chicken Dish Always Hits the Spot

When you want something that warms the heart, you turn to recipes that are both delightful and simple. This Easy, Healthy Butter Chicken is not just quick to prepare; it offers a perfect balance of spices and creamy goodness that will leave everyone craving more. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a healthy option for any dinner.

How to Make Easy, Healthy Butter Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. boneless (skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup water

Directions:

1. Start by placing your chicken cubes in a bowl or a sealable plastic bag.
2. In another bowl, mix together the tomato paste, 1/4 cup yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, ground coriander, salt, ground ginger, black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Stir until well combined—this marinade will be thick!
3. Pour this marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is covered. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours if you have time.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add canola oil. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until it softens, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Now, add in the marinated chicken along with all of the marinade. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the 1/2 cup yogurt and 1/2 cup water. Lower the heat to medium or medium-low and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste , sometimes it might not even need any extra salt!
8. Serve the chicken hot, with extra sauce spooned over top.

Serving Easy, Healthy Butter Chicken

This dish is best served with a side of fluffy brown rice or warm naan bread to soak up that heavenly sauce. For a truly cozy experience, pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables on the side.

Storing Your Butter Chicken Delight

Leftovers? No problem! You can store your Easy, Healthy Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. I recommend adding a splash of water as you heat it through to keep that sauce creamy.

Tips for Perfecting This Chicken Dish

• Allow ample marination time if you can , this really boosts the flavor.
• Be cautious with the cayenne; adjust it according to your heat preference.
• Don’t skip the Greek yogurt; it helps create that creamy texture without much fat.

Family-Friendly Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? You can easily substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist, or use different proteins like shrimp or fish. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat yogurt?

Absolutely! Low-fat Greek yogurt works perfectly in this recipe without losing flavor.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

I recommend serving it with basmati rice or naan bread. A fresh salad also adds a nice crunch.

How do I make this dish milder?

Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper, and consider using a milder curry powder instead of garam masala.

Cooking this Easy, Healthy Butter Chicken can be an enjoyable experience that brings together family and flavors. I can’t wait for you to share this delightful dish with your loved ones!