If you have ever craved a dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with the warm spices of Indian cuisine, then you absolutely must try this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe. This beloved classic marries tender pieces of chicken with a velvety tomato-based sauce that’s enriched with butter and cream. Every bite delivers comforting layers of flavor that make it a true crowd-pleaser and an instant favorite at any dinner table. Whether you’re new to cooking Indian food or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings the joy of homemade butter chicken right to your kitchen with simple steps and accessible ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe just right relies on a handful of essential ingredients that are surprisingly simple, yet each has a key role. The blend of spices, creamy elements, and fresh aromatics balance perfectly to create a silky, flavorful sauce and tender chicken.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Dark meat ensures juicy, tender chicken that holds up well in the sauce.
- 1 cup plain yogurt: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and cuts through the richness.
- 1 tablespoon garam masala: This aromatic spice blend gives the dish its signature warm flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy notes that deepen the taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Provides subtle citrus undertones.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric: Adds vibrant golden color and a mild flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a mild smokiness and beautiful redness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee: For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Builds depth and sweetness in the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent, savory warmth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger: Gives a fresh zing and spice.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Forms the tangy base of the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Delivers that luscious, silky texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enhances richness and smooths the flavor.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a burst of bright herbal freshness at the end.
How to Make Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and salt in a mixing bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in this marinade until fully coated. Letting the chicken sit for at least an hour or overnight in the fridge allows those spices and acidity to work magic, tenderizing the meat and infusing every bite with flavor. This step is your key to juicy, flavorful chicken that melts in your mouth.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat your vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally so they brown lightly on all sides. Don’t worry if they aren’t cooked through yet because they will finish cooking in the sauce. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside, reserving all those flavorful drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the same pan. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft, releasing their natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute. This creates the aromatic foundation that will elevate the sauce to new heights.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the canned tomato sauce and stir well, allowing the flavors to meld as it simmers gently for about 10 minutes. This simmering step deepens the tomato’s richness and blends it perfectly with the spices left in the pan.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Butter
Return the browned chicken to the pan and pour in the heavy cream along with the butter. Stir gently and let everything simmer together for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce reaches that signature, luxurious creaminess. At this stage, the sauce will coat the chicken like a velvety dream.
How to Serve Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh, chopped cilantro makes the perfect garnish for this dish. Its vibrant green color and citrusy flavor add a refreshing contrast to the creamy, spiced sauce. You might also sprinkle a pinch of garam masala on top for an extra aroma boost when serving.
Side Dishes
Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is best enjoyed with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully. For a complete experience, serve it alongside warm, soft naan bread—perfect for scooping and savoring every drop. A simple cucumber raita or a fresh salad can also help balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the butter chicken in small bowls as part of a tapas-style meal with an assortment of Indian dishes. You could also use it as a filling for wraps or stuffed peppers for a fusion twist. No matter how you choose to present it, the creamy texture and bold flavors will impress any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Indian Butter Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavors often intensify overnight, making the next day’s meal even more delicious.
Freezing
Butter chicken freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the butter chicken on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or cream during reheating can help restore its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving if possible, so the sauce stays luscious and evenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat, but keep in mind that thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, especially for this creamy, slow-cooked dish.
Is this dish spicy?
Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is mild and creamy, making it approachable for many spice levels. You can always adjust the paprika or add a little chili pepper if you want more heat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, try substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream and using oil instead of butter. The flavors will change slightly but remain delicious.
Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?
While marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness, a minimum of one hour will still give you tasty results if you’re short on time.
What goes well with Indian Butter Chicken besides rice and naan?
Besides basmati rice and naan, this dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or even a simple lentil dal to round out the meal.
Final Thoughts
Making this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe at home is not only incredibly satisfying but also brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The combination of rich cream, aromatic spices, and tender chicken is truly unbeatable. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, try this recipe, and enjoy every comforting bite with your loved ones. Once you do, it will become a treasured staple in your cooking repertoire!
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Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indian Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy curry featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then simmered in a luscious tomato and cream sauce. This classic North Indian dish is perfect served over basmati rice or with warm naan bread, offering a comforting, flavorful meal that’s beloved worldwide.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
Curry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to develop the flavors.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the same pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the onion softens. Then add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10 minutes to deepen its flavors.
- Finish Cooking: Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan. Add the heavy cream and unsalted butter, stirring well to combine. Simmer the curry for 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and creamy.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the butter chicken hot over freshly cooked basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs provides a juicier and more tender texture, but you can use chicken breasts if preferred.
- For a smoother sauce texture, blend the tomato and onion mixture before returning the chicken to the pan.
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat further.
- Adjust cream and butter quantities to make the dish lighter or richer according to preference.
