Indian Butter Chicken

There’s something utterly comforting about Indian Butter Chicken. It’s a dish that brings back memories of sun-soaked family dinners where laughter filled the air and the aroma of spices danced around the room. The first time I tasted it, I was captivated by the creamy sauce, rich with flavors, and the tender pieces of chicken that seemed to melt in my mouth. It was an instant favorite, and I knew I had to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. The beauty of Indian Butter Chicken is in its balance of spices. The warm notes of garam masala, the zing of ginger, and the richness of heavy cream come together to create a sauce that is simply irresistible. I remember my first attempt; there was a bit of chaos, but the result was worth every stir and simmer. As the chicken marinated, I could hardly contain my excitement. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in crafting this masterpiece. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Indian Butter Chicken has a way of making any meal feel like a celebration. So, let’s dive in and make this beloved dish right in your kitchen!

Ingredient List for Indian Butter Chicken

Each ingredient in Indian Butter Chicken plays a crucial role in developing its signature flavor. The combination of spices and creamy elements creates a rich and memorable dish that’s comforting and satisfying. Key players include the chicken, which becomes tender and flavorful, and the yogurt, which helps to marinate and infuse the flavors deeply.

• ¾ cup full-fat plain yogurt: This creamy base is essential for marinating the chicken, adding moisture and a slight tang.
• 2 cloves minced garlic: Adds a robust flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish and balances out the richness.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Provides a warm, spicy note that complements the other flavors.
• 1 tablespoon Garam Masala Indian spice: The heart of this dish, imparting aromatic and complex flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Offers a vibrant color and earthy flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a nutty depth that makes the flavors more complex.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides a subtle heat that rounds out the flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Adds a kick of spice; adjust to your taste!
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces: The main protein that becomes tender and juicy in the cooking process.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and richness to the sauce.
• 8 ounces tomato sauce: Forms the base of the delicious sauce and adds depth of flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture that is irresistible.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor in the sauce.
• ½ tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for serving): A bright garnish that adds a fresh note.

Directions for Indian Butter Chicken

Cooking Indian Butter Chicken is an absolute joy, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you! This recipe flows beautifully from marinating the chicken to creating that rich, creamy sauce. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal that will tantalize your taste buds.

1. Add the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, salt, and red pepper to a large Ziplock bag. Gently smush the spices into the yogurt to combine, creating a fragrant marinade. The aromas will start to fill the kitchen!
2. Next, add the chicken thighs to the bag and massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring every piece is coated. This step is so satisfying, and the more time you let it sit, the deeper the flavors will penetrate.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight if you can. This marination time is crucial for tender, flavorful chicken.
4. When you’re ready to cook, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it melts, it fills the kitchen with a rich, buttery aroma, making your mouth water.
5. Working in batches, add the marinated chicken pieces into the skillet. Cook them for about 2 to 4 minutes, flipping once, until the outside is a beautiful golden brown. This step is essential for getting that perfect sear.
6. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t worry if there’s some brown bits stuck to the pan. That’s flavor!
7. In the same skillet, pour in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, tomato paste, and sugar. Stir until everything is well combined, and the sauce takes on a beautiful, creamy texture.
8. Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken, and the chicken will soak up all those wonderful flavors.
9. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. This is your opportunity to make it just right for your palate.
10. Serve the Indian Butter Chicken garnished with fresh cilantro. The vibrant green adds a lovely touch and freshness to the dish.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of Indian Butter Chicken is how adaptable it is. You can easily customize it to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to make it your own!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing: You can freeze Indian Butter Chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal. Both soak up the delicious sauce beautifully.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.
• Extra Creaminess: For a richer sauce, stir in some extra butter or cream just before serving.
• Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or parsley to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

What to Serve Alongside Indian Butter Chicken

When it comes to serving Indian Butter Chicken, you have plenty of delicious options that complement its rich flavors beautifully. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice is the classic companion for Indian Butter Chicken. It absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Warm Naan: This soft bread is perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce and adds a lovely texture to the meal.
• Side Salad: A simple cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Raita: This yogurt-based side dish helps cool the palate and adds a creamy element that pairs well with the spices.
• Vegetable Samosas: For a festive touch, serve with crispy samosas as an appetizer before the main dish.
• Serve for Special Occasions: Indian Butter Chicken is perfect for family gatherings or celebrations like Ramadan, providing a warm and inviting meal.
• Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers in wraps or add to a salad for a quick lunch the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

Indian Butter Chicken is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table, with its creamy sauce and tender chicken making it a beloved favorite. I highly encourage you to try making it yourself—it’s easier than you think and utterly rewarding. Whether you’re sharing it with family or impressing dinner guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to explore the flavors and enjoy the experience of preparing this delightful dish at home.

Indian Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Indian Butter Chicken features tender chicken in a creamy, spiced sauce. This easy weeknight dinner will have everyone begging for seconds!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¾ cup full-fat plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice from ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
• 1 tablespoon Garam Masala Indian spice
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper or more to taste
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (⅜ stick)
• 8 ounces tomato sauce (1 can)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
• Fresh cilantro optional, for serving

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Add the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, salt, and red pepper to a large Ziplock bag. Gently smush the spices into the yogurt to combine, creating a fragrant marinade. The aromas will start to fill the kitchen!
2. Next, add the chicken thighs to the bag and massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring every piece is coated. This step is so satisfying, and the more time you let it sit, the deeper the flavors will penetrate.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight if you can. This marination time is crucial for tender, flavorful chicken.
4. When you’re ready to cook, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As it melts, it fills the kitchen with a rich, buttery aroma, making your mouth water.
5. Working in batches, add the marinated chicken pieces into the skillet. Cook them for about 2 to 4 minutes, flipping once, until the outside is a beautiful golden brown. This step is essential for getting that perfect sear.
6. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don't worry if there's some brown bits stuck to the pan. That's flavor!
7. In the same skillet, pour in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, tomato paste, and sugar. Stir until everything is well combined, and the sauce takes on a beautiful, creamy texture.
8. Reduce the heat to medium-low and return the chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken, and the chicken will soak up all those wonderful flavors.
9. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. This is your opportunity to make it just right for your palate.
10. Serve the Indian Butter Chicken garnished with fresh cilantro. The vibrant green adds a lovely touch and freshness to the dish.

Notes

• You can use full-fat Greek yogurt in place of regular yogurt. This will add a thicker texture.
• If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger instead. This is an easy substitution.
• Feel free to leave the cayenne pepper out if you don’t like a little spice. Adjust the heat to your preference.
• You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts in place of thighs. Both work well!
• You can use ghee in place of the butter. This will add a richer flavor.
• You can use half-and-half in place of the heavy cream. This will reduce calories slightly.
• Let the chicken marinate for at least 3 hours or up to overnight. The longer, the better!
• If you’d like a richer sauce, feel free to stir in some more butter or ghee at the end. This will enhance the taste.
• Serve with basmati rice or naan bread! Both are perfect accompaniments.

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Meet Audrey Hayes

I’m Audrey! I founded Cozy Daily Recipes to help you find joy in the kitchen every single day. I personally test and approve every recipe we publish to ensure it’s worthy of your table. Whether I'm slow cooking a Sunday roast or whipping up a quick lunch, my goal is to make your cooking life easier and more delicious.