---
title: "Big-Batch Butter Chicken"
summary: "A double batch of rich, tomato-and-cream butter chicken — built to feed a crowd or stock the freezer."
servings: "8"
tags:
  - "indian"
  - "project"
  - "make-ahead"
components:
  - "Steamed White Rice"
  - "Skillet Yogurt Flatbreads"
ingredients:
  - "3 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size chunks"
  - "1 cup plain yogurt"
  - "2 tbsp garam masala, divided"
  - "2 tbsp grated fresh ginger"
  - "8 cloves garlic, minced"
  - "2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped"
  - "1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes"
  - "1 cup heavy cream"
  - "4 tbsp butter"
  - "1 tbsp ground cumin"
  - "1 tsp cayenne"
  - "2 tbsp neutral oil"
  - "salt to taste"
  - "[[steamed-white-rice-recipes]] to serve"
instructions:
  - "**Marinate** — In a large bowl, toss the chicken with the yogurt, 1 tbsp garam masala, ginger, and garlic. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 8–12 hours overnight."
  - "**Sear** — Heat the oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches so the chicken is not crowded, brown the marinated chicken on the outside. It does not need to be cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate."
  - "**Build the base** — Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same pot. Add the finely chopped yellow onions and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden. Add the remaining 1 tbsp garam masala, cumin, and cayenne; cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant."
  - "**Simmer** — Add the crushed tomatoes and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened."
  - "**Finish** — Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Warm gently for 2–3 minutes without boiling. Taste and add salt as needed. Serve over steamed rice."
notes:
  - "The overnight marinade is worth planning for; it seasons the thighs all the way through."
  - "Cools and freezes beautifully in meal-sized portions; thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of cream."
---