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Barbecued Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Masala Sauce

Shruthi
Barbecued Butter Chicken is a smoky twist on classic Indian butter chicken.Chicken is marinated in yogurt, spices, garlic, and lemon juice.The chicken is grilled or barbecued for a charred smoky flavor.A creamy tomato-butter sauce adds rich and comforting texture.Perfect with naan, rice, or roasted vegetables.A restaurant-style dish that combines barbecue flavor with authentic Indian spices.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine fusion, Indian
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons oil

For the Butter Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin powder
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, cumin, salt, and oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 2 hours.
  • Preheat grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until lightly charred and cooked through.
  • Heat butter and oil in a pan. Sauté onions until golden, then add garlic and ginger. Stir in tomato puree and spices. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Add cream and honey to the sauce. Mix well, then add grilled chicken pieces. Simmer for 5 minutes until coated and flavorful.
  • Garnish with cilantro and cream drizzle. Serve hot with naan or rice.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs remain more tender after grilling.
  • Yogurt helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
  • Charred grill marks enhance authentic flavor.
  • Kashmiri chili powder gives vibrant color with mild heat.
  • Heavy cream creates a silky sauce texture.
  • Butter adds richness and depth.
  • Tomato puree should be smooth for best consistency.
  • Fresh cilantro brightens the dish before serving.
Keyword Barbecued Butter Chicken, BBQ Butter Chicken, Creamy Tomato Chicken, Indian Grilled Chicken, Murgh Makhani, Smoky Butter Chicken