One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken recipe combines the rich, creamy goodness of traditional butter chicken with the convenience of a one-pan meal. The chicken is perfectly marinated in a flavorful, spiced yogurt mixture and then baked to perfection, keeping it juicy and tender. The result is a mouth-watering dish with a smooth, flavorful sauce that can be served with rice, naan, or your favorite side. It’s the perfect dinner option for a cozy weeknight or a special occasion, and it’s ready to enjoy without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 2 tablespoon butter, melted

• 2 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

• 1 tablespoon garam masala

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• Salt to taste

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, melted butter, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Mix well to create the marinade.

3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) for the best flavor.

4. Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Remove the chicken from the oven and pour the heavy cream over the top. Return it to the oven for another 5 minutes to let the sauce meld together.

7. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes (excluding marinating time)

• Cook time: 35-40 minutes

• Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Butter Chicken: Add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for more heat.

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

• Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the baking dish along with the chicken.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free yogurt substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to develop even more.

What can I serve with One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken?

You can serve this dish with steamed rice, naan bread, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked butter chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe too. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check for doneness using a meat thermometer.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice in this recipe is mild to medium, depending on how much chili powder you use. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste.

Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a different flavor profile, especially for a dairy-free version.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.

Can I make the butter chicken without baking it?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on the stove in a skillet over medium heat, turning it occasionally until it is cooked through and the sauce thickens.

Conclusion

One-Pan Baked Butter Chicken is an easy yet indulgent dish that combines the richness of butter chicken with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without the fuss, this recipe delivers flavor in every bite. With its versatility in variations and the option to store and reheat leftovers, it’s sure to become a family favorite.