Saffron-Infused Indian Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Tender chicken simmered in a richly spiced tomato and cream sauce, accented by the delicate aroma of saffron. This indian-inspired chicken ready in about 50 minutes blends plain yogurt, garam masala, turmeric powder into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb, cut into 1-inch pieces boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium, finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water saffron threads
- 1/4 cup chopped for garnish cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine 1 lb boneless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces with 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Step 2: Heat 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté for 6-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Step 3: Add 1 tbsp ginger paste and 1 tbsp garlic paste to the onions, cooking for 2 minutes until aromatic.
- Step 4: Stir in 1 cup tomato puree and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and oil separates around the edges.
- Step 5: Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is cooked through.
- Step 6: Pour the saffron-infused water (1/4 tsp saffron threads soaked in 2 tbsp warm water) and 1/2 cup heavy cream into the skillet. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and coats the chicken.
- Step 7: Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves and serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Saffron-Infused Indian Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 50 minutes (15 min prep + 35 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Saffron-Infused Indian Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Saffron-Infused Indian Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Saffron-Infused Indian Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Saffron-Infused Indian Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Sauce?
Indian chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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