Name: Delicious Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: Boneless chicken thighs; Unsalted butter; Fresh ginger; Canned tomatoes; Heavy cream; Cumin, coriander, garam masala; Onion; Garlic; Salt & pepper; Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of buttery spices wafts through the kitchen as you prepare to dive into your next culinary adventure. Picture tender chunks of chicken simmered in a velvety sauce that’s equal parts rich and comforting, making every bite a warm hug from the inside out.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the table for Sunday dinners filled with laughter and love. The highlight was always my mom’s famous butter chicken, which could turn any ordinary evening into a festive feast full of happy memories.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken recipe is effortless to prepare, allowing you to impress guests without breaking a sweat
The explosion of flavors will transport your taste buds to India
Its stunning color and appealing aromas make it an instant crowd-pleaser
Plus, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions

I still remember one particular Sunday when my uncle mistook the spice jar for sugar while attempting to impress us with his cooking skills. Let’s just say dessert was definitely not on the menu that night!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Thighs: I recommend thighs for their juiciness; they stay tender even after cooking.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for precise flavor control and that signature creaminess.
Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for an aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes; they create a rich base for your sauce.
Heavy Cream: A must-have for achieving that luxurious texture; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): These spices are essential for authentic flavor; toast them briefly to boost their fragrance.
Onion: Finely chop onions until translucent; they add sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is vital; it adds an irresistible aroma when sautéed with onions.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the other flavors beautifully.
Cilantro (for garnish): Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness at serving time.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the countertop; this makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable as you see everything ready to go.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent—this usually takes about five minutes—then mix in minced garlic until fragrant.

Add Chicken: Toss in the boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces. Sauté until lightly browned on all sides for about 8 minutes; this gives your dish a lovely depth of flavor.

Create the Sauce: Stir in canned tomatoes along with grated ginger and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Allow it to simmer gently for about 15 minutes until everything melds beautifully together.

Add Cream: Lower heat slightly before slowly pouring in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until thickened and luxuriously creamy.

Season & Serve: Taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving over fluffy rice or warm naan.

Now you have a plateful of buttery goodness waiting to be devoured!

You Must Know

A fantastic butter chicken recipe Indian style isn’t just about flavors; it’s about mastering the art of marination
The longer you marinate, the more tender and flavorful your chicken becomes
Plus, the colors and aromas will transform your kitchen into a fragrant paradise

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken until golden brown first, then simmer it in the sauce to absorb all those delightful flavors. This technique ensures your dish is rich and succulent, making every bite a heavenly experience.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for paneer or vegetables for a vegetarian twist. Add cashew cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, enhancing that luxurious texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the creamy consistency.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact; stale spices can dull your dish significantly
Sautéing onions until golden brings a natural sweetness that enhances depth
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; it’s the secret to perfection!

Sharing this buttery delight with friends during a cozy dinner night was unforgettable; they couldn’t stop raving about it! Their smiles made all my culinary efforts worthwhile.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs add extra juiciness to your butter chicken recipe Indian style.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Replace cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

How spicy is this butter chicken recipe Indian?

You can adjust spice levels by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.