Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something filling and delicious, but shuddering at the thought of using a mountain of pots and pans. Enter One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken, the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and comfort. It’s a dish that brings the rich, velvety taste of butter chicken into your home with minimal effort. If you’re looking for an easy yet satisfying meal, this recipe is for you.
What Is Baked Butter Chicken?
Butter chicken, known as murgh makhani in India, is a globally loved dish with roots in Punjabi cuisine. Traditionally, tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, cooked in a tandoor, and then simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce rich with butter and spices.
Baked Butter Chicken takes this traditional dish and simplifies it. By using an oven and a single pan, you can recreate the magic of butter chicken without juggling multiple pots or babysitting the stove. The result? A caramelized, flavorful chicken dish with buttery, aromatic spices and a smooth sauce.
Why Choose One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken?
Convenience and Time-Saving
Using one pan means fewer steps and fewer materials to clean up. You simply marinate, arrange, bake, and enjoy, saving valuable time on busy evenings or weekends.
Reduced Cleanup
Traditional butter chicken recipes can require multiple pans, bowls, and utensils. With this method, cleanup is a breeze, giving you more time to savor your meal (or binge-watch your favorite series).
Healthier Cooking Method
Baking in one pan locks in the moisture and flavor, reducing the need for excessive oils or fats. You’ll enjoy all the decadence of butter chicken with a healthier twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts (about 1.5 pounds): Thighs are recommended for juicier results, but breasts work as well.
- Greek Yogurt (½ cup): For marinating the chicken and tenderizing it.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds depth to the marinade and sauce.
- Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): A key element of authentic Indian flavors.
- Tomato Puree (1 cup): The heart of the butter chicken sauce.
- Heavy Cream (½ cup): For that creamy, luscious texture.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness to the sauce.
- Spices:
- Turmeric (½ teaspoon)
- Coriander powder (1 teaspoon)
- Garam masala (1 teaspoon)
- Cumin (1 teaspoon)
- Kashmiri chili powder (1 teaspoon, or adjust to taste)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)
Optional Substitutions:
- Use canned coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
- Substitute tofu for chicken for a vegetarian adaptation.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
1. Prepare the Marinade
Mix the Greek yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A consistent temperature ensures even cooking.
3. Arrange and Bake
Place marinated chicken pieces in a greased baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Pour the tomato puree around the chicken, dot the mixture with butter, and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
4. Add Cream and Broil
Remove the pan, stir the cream into the sauce, and broil for 5-7 minutes to caramelize the chicken and thicken the sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
💡 Pro Tip: For the best results, baste the chicken with its juices halfway through baking.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian:
Replace chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas. Follow the same marination and baking process.
- Spice Adjustments:
Dial up the heat with extra chili powder, or tone it down by substituting paprika.
- Add Vegetables:
Toss cauliflower florets or bell peppers into the sauce before baking for an all-in-one meal.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your butter chicken experience with these pairings:
- Naan Bread or Garlic Butter Naan
- Steamed Basmati or Jeera Rice
- Cucumber Raita for a cooling element
- A simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and lemon dressing
Health Benefits
Aside from its irresistible taste, this dish packs a nutritional punch thanks to key ingredients:
- Spices like turmeric and cumin have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Garlic and ginger support immune health.
- Greek yogurt adds probiotics for gut health.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken:
Dry chicken can ruin the dish. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Neglecting the Marination Step:
Marinating allows the chicken to absorb the spices fully, ensuring a flavorful outcome.
- Uneven Spice Distribution:
Mix the marinade thoroughly to avoid bland bites.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:
Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to preserve the sauce’s texture.
People Also Ask
Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
Is butter chicken spicy?
Traditional butter chicken is mildly spiced. Adjust chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and heat thoroughly before serving.
Give It a Try Today
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home. One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken combines modern convenience with the timeless flavors of a beloved classic. Perfect for weeknights or when entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your regular meal rotation.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments, or tag us on social media with your creation!
