There’s a certain comfort in the sizzle of marinated chicken baking away, filling the kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of spices that dance in the air. I recently found myself craving a dish that’s both satisfying and simple, and that’s when I stumbled upon this incredible recipe for One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken. It’s a harmonious blend of rich creaminess and vibrant spices, perfect for those evenings when you want delicious homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Imagine plopping a marinated chicken in the oven, letting it work its magic while you sit back and unwind. In just 45 minutes, you’ll be treated to tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luscious tomato-cream sauce, ready to be served over fluffy basmati rice or alongside warm naan. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is bound to impress. Let’s dive into the details, shall we?
Why is One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity Redefined: This recipe takes the classic butter chicken and simplifies it, using just one pan for marinating and baking, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavor Explosion: With an aromatic blend of spices mixed with creamy goodness, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over basmati rice or with warm naan; either way, it’s a meal everyone will love.
Quick Cooking Time: In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready, perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Experience the joy of homemade food that’s sure to impress family and friends—everyone will be asking for seconds!
One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
• 1.2 kg bone-in chicken thighs – using skinless thighs ensures tender, juicy meat.
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt – full-fat yogurt adds richness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – this brightens flavors and balances the richness of the dish.
• 1 tbsp ginger, finely grated – fresh ginger brings warmth and depth to the marinade.
• 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or crushed – garlic is essential for its fragrant aroma and flavor.
For the Spice Blend
• 1 tsp turmeric powder – this adds color and an earthy flavor to the dish.
• 2 tsp garam masala – it’s a warming spice mix that’s the heart of the butter chicken flavor.
• 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper – adjust for desired heat; it’s great for adding a kick.
• 1 tsp ground cumin – cumin brings an earthy spiciness that rounds out the blend.
• 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt – essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
For the Sauce
• 2 tbsp melted ghee or butter – use ghee for a traditional taste or butter for a creamy finish.
• 1 cup tomato passata – the base for a luscious sauce that melds perfectly with chicken.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk – either will create a rich and velvety sauce.
• 1 1/2 tsp white sugar – sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
• 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt – a pinch to bring everything together harmoniously.
For Garnish
• 1/2 cup coriander leaves (cilantro) – fresh cilantro adds brightness and a burst of flavor (optional).
• Basmati rice – the perfect accompanyment to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Naan – a wonderful way to enjoy the meal, perfect for dipping into that creamy sauce.
Get ready to create a magical meal with this One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken!
How to Make One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken
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Preheat your oven to 200°C / 400°F (180°C fan-forced). This ensures a nicely cooked chicken with a golden finish.
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Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat it evenly. Let those flavors mingle for at least 15 minutes for an irresistibly tender bite.
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Optional: If you have the time, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, enhancing the flavor significantly.
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Prepare the sauce by mixing the sauce ingredients in a 23 x 33cm / 9 x 13″ baking dish. Lay the chicken in, smooth side up. Use the leftover marinade to dab onto the chicken surface for extra flavor.
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Bake the chicken for 45 minutes, but be sure to baste it with the sauce at the 30-minute and 40-minute marks. This keeps the chicken juicy and infuses it with sauce.
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Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain the juices, making every bite oh-so-tender. Serve over basmati rice and garnish with fresh coriander if desired.
Optional: Try serving with warm naan for an extra touch of comfort!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring to add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens.
Serving: When serving leftover butter chicken, garnish with fresh coriander to revive the flavors, especially if it’s been frozen.
What to Serve with One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken?
The perfect side dishes can elevate your butter chicken experience, bringing out its rich flavors and comforting aroma.
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, it absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, creating the ideal bite.
- Warm Naan: Freshly baked naan is perfect for dipping into the sauce, offering a delightful texture contrast.
- Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side balances the spices, refreshing your palate between bites.
- Saag Paneer: This creamy spinach dish brings a healthy, vibrant element that pairs wonderfully with the richness of butter chicken.
- Chickpea Salad: A light salad with chickpeas, cucumber, and lemon adds a crisp, fresh crunch to each mouthful.
- Mint Chutney: A zesty condiment that brightens each scrape of bread and enhances the dish’s flavors.
For drinks, consider serving a chilled mango lassi or a crisp cucumber-mint soda to complement the spices perfectly!
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the marinade ingredients, toss the chicken, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. The sauce can also be prepared ahead and stored separately for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, layer the marinated chicken in the baking dish, add the sauce, and bake as directed. This method not only saves valuable time during the week but also ensures the chicken remains just as delicious, with all those flavors seeped in beautifully. Enjoy a stress-free dinner with minimal effort!
One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own with these tasty options!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute yogurt and cream with coconut yogurt and full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or increase the chili powder for those who crave extra heat in their butter chicken.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini along with the chicken for added nutrition and vibrant color.
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Curry Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of curry powder with the marinade for a fusion flavor that adds depth and complexity.
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Nutrient-Rich: Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner, protein-packed option that’s still delicious.
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Cilantro-Free: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions to brighten things up.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika for that rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Nutty Texture: Fold in a handful of toasted cashews or almonds just before serving to add a delightful crunch to the dish.
These variations let you explore different flavor profiles and dietary needs while keeping the essence of that comforting One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken intact. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken
• Marination Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes—better yet, overnight—to infuse maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Basting Technique: Remember to baste the chicken at the 30 and 40-minute marks for optimal moisture and flavor. Miss this step, and you could end up with dry chicken!
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to your heat preference. Don’t overpower the dish; a little spice goes a long way!
• Perfect Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few minutes on the stovetop before baking, adjusting the cream for your desired richness.
• Serving Style: Garnish generously with fresh coriander and serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a delightful meal experience. The combination with the One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken is heavenly!
One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using bone-in chicken thighs is highly recommended for this One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken. They’re tender and juicy, ensuring optimal flavor. Make sure they are skinless, which helps the marinade penetrate and keeps the dish creamy and rich, without added grease.
How can I store leftover One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken?
Very simple! You can store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its wonderful flavors and keeps it fresh. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.
Can I freeze One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container, and it will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of cream if needed to bring back its smooth consistency.
What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?
No problem at all! While traditional spices like garam masala and turmeric create a unique flavor, you can still enjoy this dish by substituting with what you have. You might consider using curry powder if that’s available, as it often contains similar spices. For heat, paprika or even a dash of hot sauce can work in a pinch.
Is this dish safe for my pets?
While the dish is scrumptious for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing it with pets. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to cats and dogs. Stick to feeding them pet-specific food, but feel free to reserve a plain piece of chicken without spices for a pet treat!
Why do I need to baste the chicken during cooking?
Great question! Basting is key to achieving juicy chicken! By basting the chicken with the sauce at the 30-minute and 40-minute marks, you’re ensuring that the chicken stays moist and flavorful, absorbing the sauce’s rich goodness. Skipping this step could lead to dry meat, so don’t miss out!
One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken That'll Brighten Your Dinner!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C / 400°F (180°C fan-forced). This ensures a nicely cooked chicken with a golden finish.
- Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the chicken and toss to coat it evenly. Let those flavors mingle for at least 15 minutes for an irresistibly tender bite.
- Optional: If you have the time, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, enhancing the flavor significantly.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing the sauce ingredients in a 23 x 33cm / 9 x 13" baking dish. Lay the chicken in, smooth side up. Use the leftover marinade to dab onto the chicken surface for extra flavor.
- Bake the chicken for 45 minutes, but be sure to baste it with the sauce at the 30-minute and 40-minute marks. This keeps the chicken juicy and infuses it with sauce.
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain the juices, making every bite oh-so-tender. Serve over basmati rice and garnish with fresh coriander if desired.