As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of spices wafted in, transporting me straight to the bustling streets of India. This is the magic of cooking Authentic Indian Butter Chicken—an exquisite harmony of creamy goodness and savory warmth that makes any meal feel special. What I adore about this dish is not just its rich flavor profile, but also the simplicity behind it that makes it perfect for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a luscious masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a delightful comfort food that can easily become a staple in your home. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Butter Chicken a Must-Try? Irresistibly Creamy: The heavy cream mingles beautifully with the spicy tomato sauce, creating a texture that’s simply to die for. Authentic Flavors: This dish brings the true taste of India right to your kitchen, making every meal feel festive. Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. Versatile Options: Substitute chicken with paneer or add fresh veggies for a twist. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with a comforting dish that’s sure to leave them asking for seconds! If you’re looking for another delightful recipe, try my Garlic Butter Beef or even the famous Orange Chicken for more special occasions. This Indian Butter Chicken will quickly become a staple in your home! Indian Butter Chicken Ingredients For the Marinade Boneless chicken thighs – Provides tender texture and meaty flavor; substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option. Plain yogurt – Acts as a marinade, tenderizing the chicken; Greek yogurt works great for a thicker consistency. Lemon juice – Adds acidity to enhance flavor, but fresh lime juice can be used as an alternative. Garam masala – A blend of spices that brings warmth and depth; adjust according to your taste preference. Ground cumin – Contributes to the depth of flavor for a well-rounded curry experience. Ground coriander – Balances the spices with a hint of sweetness. Turmeric – Adds a warm, earthy flavor and that beautiful golden color. Red chili powder – Provides heat; feel free to adjust based on your preferred spice tolerance. Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor. For the Sauce Butter – Offers richness and a traditional flavor profile; ghee can be a healthier alternative. Large onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and body to the sauce; sauté until golden for best results. Garlic, minced – Provides aromatic depth and a lovely fragrance to the dish. Ginger, grated – Infuses warmth and a touch of spice that complements the other flavors. Tomato puree – Forms the base of the sauce, adding sweetness and acidity for balance. Heavy cream – Makes the dish creamy and indulgently rich; coconut cream can be a wonderful dairy-free substitute. Fresh cilantro – For garnish and a burst of freshness that elevates the presentation. This Indian Butter Chicken recipe combines these ingredients to create a silky sauce that envelops tender chicken, making it a magnificent feast for any occasion! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a large mixing bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Add the boneless chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. Step 2: Sauté Onions Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and stir occasionally for about 8-10 minutes, or until the onions turn a beautiful golden brown. This step builds the flavorful base for your Indian Butter Chicken. Step 3: Add Aromatics Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger into the pan, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and the raw aroma fades. This aromatic mixture introduces warmth and richness to your sauce, setting the stage for the main ingredients in your Indian Butter Chicken. Step 4: Cook Chicken Add the marinated chicken along with any excess marinade to the pan. Cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and starts to brown slightly. The marinated chicken will pick up those delicious flavors from the base. Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Puree Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the tomato puree. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully and the sauce to thicken. You should see a vibrant color develop as the sauce simmers. Step 6: Mix in Cream Lower the heat further, then gently stir in the heavy cream, mixing until fully incorporated. Allow it to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. As it heats, the sauce will become luxuriously creamy, enveloping the tender chicken. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Remove the pan from heat once the sauce is creamy and bubbling. Garnish your Indian Butter Chicken generously with fresh cilantro for added freshness. Serve it hot with steaming basmati rice or warm naan. Enjoy the rich and cozy flavors of this beloved dish! Indian Butter Chicken Variations Feel free to personalize this delicious recipe, creating your own unique spin on the classic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds! Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken thighs with paneer for a hearty, vegetarian version that still delivers that creamy satisfaction. Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or baby spinach for an additional layer of nutrition and vibrant color; your family will love the extra crunch. Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free delight, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream, adding a tropical twist to this warming dish. Spicy Kick: If you’re a spice lover, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to raise the heat level deliciously. Nutty Flavor: Add a spoonful of almond or cashew paste to the sauce for a rich and nutty undertone, enhancing the dish’s overall creaminess. Greek Yogurt Swap: For a lighter marinade, use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt; its thickness adds great texture while reducing calories. Herbs and Spices: Include fresh mint or basil with the cilantro garnish for a fresh burst of flavor that complements the spiciness beautifully. Curry Twist: Use your favorite curry powder in place of garam masala for a different flavor profile that still captures the heart of Indian cooking. You can combine different variations too! This Indian Butter Chicken is not only a meal; it’s an experience waiting for your personal touch. If you’re now craving more flavorful dishes, check out my Garlic Butter Shrimp or the mouthwatering Spicy Chicken Spaghetti to add a burst of excitement to your dinner table! What to Serve with Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Transform your dinner experience with complementary sides that enhance the rich flavors of your Butter Chicken! Steamed Basmati Rice: The fluffy texture of basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, providing a delightful contrast to the dish’s richness. Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce, making every bite a delectable experience. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt salad alleviates the spice while offering a refreshing crunch, balancing the warmth of the Butter Chicken beautifully. Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low-carb alternative, this side dish provides a mild flavor that complements the creamy richness without overpowering it. Saag Paneer: With its creamy spinach sauce and rich paneer, this dish adds texture and flavor depth, creating a wonderful vegetarian option alongside your Butter Chicken. Chickpea Salad: Tossed with lemon and fresh herbs, chickpeas bring a delightful crunch and freshness that brightens up your plate. Mango Lassi: This sweet and creamy yogurt drink pairs beautifully with the spices, offering a refreshing respite while enhancing your culinary journey. Samosas: Crunchy on the outside and warm on the inside, these savory pastries provide a delightful appetizer that sets the stage for the main dish. Make Ahead Options Making this Authentic Indian Butter Chicken ahead of time is a wonderful way to streamline your dinner routine! You can marinate the chicken in the yogurt mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and ensuring tender, juicy results. Also, consider sautéing the onions and preparing the sauce (without the cream) up to 3 days ahead—just refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the sauce, mix in the cream, and finish cooking the marinated chicken. This approach ensures you’ll have a creamy and flavorful dish that tastes just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! How to Store and Freeze Indian Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Indian Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to preserve flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing for best results. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much. Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep! Prepare a big batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Expert Tips for Indian Butter Chicken Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight boosts flavor and tenderness, ensuring every bite is succulent and rich. Adjusting Spice: Taste your red chili powder before adding; this allows you to control the heat based on your family’s spice preferences. Golden Onions Matter: Sautéing onions until they’re golden brown deepens the flavor of your sauce. Don’t rush this process! Balancing Creaminess: When mixing in cream, aim for a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil to maintain its luxurious texture. Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro doesn’t just add color; it enhances the dish’s freshness and brightness, elevating your Indian Butter Chicken even further. Indian Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for Butter Chicken? Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, but you can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. How should I store leftover Indian Butter Chicken? Store any leftover Indian Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to ensure it maintains its delicious flavor and texture. Can I freeze Indian Butter Chicken? Very! To freeze, let your Indian Butter Chicken cool completely. Then, transfer it into an airtight container or a high-quality freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. What should I do if my Butter Chicken sauce is too thick? Don’t worry; it’s an easy fix! If your sauce becomes too thick after cooking, you can add a little warm water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon, mix well, and add more if necessary, stirring until you get the perfect texture. Is Butter Chicken suitable for those with dairy allergies? If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream. It will still provide the richness you desire while keeping it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with paneer for a delicious vegetarian dish. Additionally, feel free to add in some chopped veggies like bell peppers or peas to add extra color and nutrition to your Indian Butter Chicken. Indian Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs Creamy Indian Butter Chicken that Will Elevate Your Dinner Experience the rich flavors of Indian Butter Chicken, a creamy and savory dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsMarinating Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: IndianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade1 pound Boneless chicken thighs Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.1 cup Plain yogurt Greek yogurt works great for a thicker consistency.2 tablespoons Lemon juice Fresh lime juice can be used as an alternative.2 teaspoons Garam masala Adjust according to your taste preference.1 teaspoon Ground cumin1 teaspoon Ground coriander1 teaspoon Turmeric1 teaspoon Red chili powder Feel free to adjust based on your preferred spice tolerance.1 teaspoon SaltFor the Sauce3 tablespoons Butter Ghee can be a healthier alternative.1 large Onion, finely chopped Sauté until golden for best results.3 cloves Garlic, minced1 tablespoon Ginger, grated1 cup Tomato puree1 cup Heavy cream Coconut cream can be a wonderful dairy-free substitute.1 cup Fresh cilantro For garnish. Equipment large mixing bowllarge panPlastic Wrap Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Indian Butter ChickenIn a large mixing bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Add the boneless chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and stir occasionally for about 8-10 minutes, or until the onions turn a beautiful golden brown.Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger into the pan, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until it's fragrant.Add the marinated chicken along with any excess marinade to the pan. Cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and starts to brown slightly.Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the tomato puree. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.Lower the heat further, then gently stir in the heavy cream, mixing until fully incorporated. Allow it to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes while tasting and adjusting seasoning if needed.Remove the pan from heat and garnish your Indian Butter Chicken generously with fresh cilantro. Serve it hot with steaming basmati rice or warm naan. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesThis dish is great for meal prep! Prepare a big batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
