Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Every time I think about comfort food, the first thing that pops into my mind is Indian Butter Chicken Recipe. This dish takes me back to my first visit to an Indian restaurant, where the aroma of spices filled the air, and the vibrant colors of the dishes mesmerized me. I remember sitting down at the table, the anticipation building, as I waited for my first taste of this creamy delight. As the first bite melted in my mouth, I was instantly hooked. The combination of tender chicken, rich spices, and a buttery sauce was unlike anything I’d experienced before. Since then, Indian Butter Chicken Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish I love to share with family and friends during cozy gatherings or festive occasions.

What You’ll Need for Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

The ingredients in Indian Butter Chicken Recipe work beautifully together to create a dish that’s full of rich flavors and comforting textures. Each component has its role, contributing to the overall harmony of the dish. The key players here include tender chicken that soaks up the marinade, a creamy sauce enriched by butter and heavy cream, and a medley of spices that give the dish its signature taste.

• 3 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces – The star of the dish, tender and juicy, making each bite satisfying.
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt – Adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced – Essential for building flavor right from the start.
• 2 tsp ginger, minced – Brings warmth and a little zing to the dish.
• 2 tsp garam masala – A fragrant spice mix that’s a hallmark of Indian cuisine.
• 1 tsp turmeric – Adds color and health benefits, along with a mild flavor.
• 1 tsp cumin – A warm spice that enhances the savory notes.
• 1 tsp chili powder – Provides a kick of heat that balances the creaminess.
• 1 tsp salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp olive oil, or avocado oil – Used for searing the chicken to get that beautiful brown color.
• 6 tbsp butter, divided – The secret to the rich sauce that defines this recipe.
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 115 oz can crushed tomatoes – The base of the sauce, giving it body and richness.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, up to 1 tsp (optional) – For those who love a spicier kick.
• 1/2 cup cashews, unsalted – Adds creaminess and a slight crunch.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce luscious and smooth.
• 1 tbsp sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and spices.

Cooking Instructions for Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Cooking Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is as enjoyable as eating it! The aromas that fill your kitchen will make your mouth water as the dish comes together. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead to this delicious masterpiece.

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated, cover with plastic wrap, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes. If possible, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
2. Once the marinating time is up, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, searing them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 3 minutes. It’s important to not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. If needed, do this in batches, adding more oil as necessary. Once browned, set the chicken aside on a plate to keep warm.
3. In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onion and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the onions to become soft and start to caramelize, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Next, add the garlic, ginger, cumin, and garam masala. Cook for about 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Allow the mixture to come to a slight simmer, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the color deepening to a rich red, and the flavors will start to meld together beautifully.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the mixture into a blender. Blend until smooth, and then pour it back into the skillet over low to medium heat.
7. Gradually stir in the heavy cream and sugar, mixing until everything is combined and creamy.
8. Return the cooked chicken (and any juices) back into the skillet. Stir to combine, and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. This is where the magic happens as the butter you set aside will be added in the final step.
9. Finally, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt into the sauce as you stir, creating a silky texture. Once everything is heated through, your Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to serve!
10. Serve warm with basmati rice and warm naan bread. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Variations to Try

There are so many ways to enjoy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe beyond the classic version. Here are some exciting variations you might want to try:

• Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for an added nutritional boost.
• Make it Vegan: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use coconut milk instead of cream for a vegan-friendly version.
• Different Proteins: Try using lamb or shrimp in place of chicken for a unique twist on the classic.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder or using different spicy peppers.
• Herb Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to elevate the dish with fresh flavors.

What to Serve With Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

When it comes to serving Indian Butter Chicken Recipe, the options are endless! Here are some fantastic pairings:

• Basmati Rice: The classic pairing, its fluffy grains soak up the rich sauce beautifully.
• Warm Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and making every bite enjoyable.
• Raita: A cooling yogurt sauce that pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of the dish.
• Salad: A fresh cucumber and tomato salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness.
• Side Dishes: Serve alongside lentil dal or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or festive celebrations like Diwali.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is truly a standout dish that captures the heart of Indian cuisine with its rich flavors and comforting textures. I encourage you to try making it at home—it’s easier than you might think and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Each bite is a journey through spices and creaminess that you won’t want to miss. So gather your ingredients, and let’s cook up this delightful dish together!

Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is creamy, rich, and full of flavor. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish will delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Make it tonight and experience the magic!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Blender
• Food Processor
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 3 large chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp garlic
• 2 tsp ginger
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 6 tbsp butter
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 tbsp garlic
• 2 tsp ginger
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper up to 1 tsp (optional according to spice preference)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup cashews unsalted
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp sugar

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir until the chicken is thoroughly coated, cover with plastic wrap, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes. If possible, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
• Once the marinating time is up, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, searing them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 3 minutes. It’s important to not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. If needed, do this in batches, adding more oil as necessary. Once browned, set the chicken aside on a plate to keep warm.
• In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onion and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the onions to become soft and start to caramelize, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Next, add the garlic, ginger, cumin, and garam masala. Cook for about 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Allow the mixture to come to a slight simmer, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. You'll notice the color deepening to a rich red, and the flavors will start to meld together beautifully.
• Remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the mixture into a blender. Blend until smooth, and then pour it back into the skillet over low to medium heat.
• Gradually stir in the heavy cream and sugar, mixing until everything is combined and creamy.
• Return the cooked chicken (and any juices) back into the skillet. Stir to combine, and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. This is where the magic happens as the butter you set aside will be added in the final step.
• Finally, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt into the sauce as you stir, creating a silky texture. Once everything is heated through, your Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to serve!
• Serve warm with basmati rice and warm naan bread. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Notes

The flavors get better with time, making leftovers a treat. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Keyword Butter Chicken, comfort food, Easy Indian Recipes, Indian cuisine

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.