If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in warmth and richness, then you absolutely must try this Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken soaked in a spicy, luscious tomato and cream sauce that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings together comforting flavors, vibrant color, and a silky texture that will make you swoon. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen arsenal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each one bringing its own magic to the dish. From spices that create the signature warmth and aroma, to the creamy elements that balance the flavors beautifully, this list ensures your butter chicken is rich and vibrant every time.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 1/2 pounds): Juicy and tender, thighs stay moist and soak up the marinade perfectly.
- Plain yogurt (1 cup): Adds tanginess while tenderizing the chicken during marination.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the marinade and enhances all the spices.
- Garam masala (2 teaspoons): A fragrant blend that defines the warming Indian flavor profile.
- Ground cumin (2 teaspoons): Adds earthiness and depth to the spice mix.
- Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle bitterness and golden color to the sauce.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a mellow sweetness and vibrant red hue.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for balancing and highlighting all the flavors.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Provides rich creaminess and indulgence in the sauce.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Helps cook the chicken and sauté aromatics without overpowering.
- Onion, finely chopped (1): Builds a flavorful base with its sweetness and texture.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Packs a pungent, savory punch that wakes up the sauce.
- Fresh ginger, minced (1 tablespoon): Adds zest and a little warmth to the mix.
- Tomato sauce (15-ounce can): The heart of the dish, creating a robust, tangy, and velvety sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers the luscious creaminess that makes this dish truly irresistible.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances acidity and rounds out the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright contrast to the rich sauce.
How to Make Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by making a wonderful marinade that infuses the chicken with deep, aromatic flavors. In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until they are thoroughly coated. Let the chicken soak in all those incredible spices for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, marinate it overnight—it really makes a difference in tenderness and flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat butter and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and gently sauté until they become soft and golden, which brings out their natural sweetness. Next, stir in the minced garlic and fresh ginger. Cook these for about a minute more until you can smell that wonderful fragrance filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces straight into the skillet and cook them until they brown nicely on all sides. Keep in mind, the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this point—we want to sear it so it locks in those flavors and juices while building incredible depth.
Step 4: Simmer in Tomato Sauce
Pour the tomato sauce and sprinkle in the sugar, then give everything a good stir. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook gently and the sauce to thicken and deepen in flavor. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom!
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Turn the heat down to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for another 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy and the chicken is cooked through. This final step transforms the dish into the indulgent and velvety delight that is the hallmark of the Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro sprinkled right before serving adds an inviting green pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly. You can also sprinkle some toasted fenugreek leaves if you want to get authentic and adventurous!
Side Dishes
For the ultimate experience, serve your butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up the sauce beautifully, or warm, pillowy naan bread. Both are perfect options for scooping up every bit of the creamy sauce and making sure nothing goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving the butter chicken in individual ramekins garnished with cilantro and a drizzle of cream. Another fun idea is layering the chicken over a bed of saffron-infused rice or even wrapped into a stuffed paratha for a handheld treat that’s bursting with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing the wonderful creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, butter chicken freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months, making it a great meal prep option when you want something delicious ready to go.
Reheating
When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or cream if the sauce becomes too thick. Avoid microwaving directly as it may cause uneven heating and affect the texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful when cooked. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook as they tend to dry out more easily.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe has a moderate level of spice thanks to the spices like garam masala and paprika. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of garam masala or omit any chili-based additions.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, which adds a slight sweetness and keeps the sauce creamy. Yogurt can also be used but adds tanginess and changes the texture slightly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
The chicken should marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight marination will deepen the flavor and yield the juiciest results.
What is the best way to serve butter chicken?
Butter chicken is best served hot with basmati rice or naan bread. These sides complement the creamy sauce and help soak up every delicious bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like digging into a bowl of this creamy, comforting, and deeply flavorful Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish has captured hearts all over the world. Give it a try, invite friends or family, and enjoy the beautiful aromas and rich taste that only a homemade butter chicken can offer. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Indian Butter Chicken recipe features tender marinated chicken thighs cooked in a rich, spiced tomato and cream sauce. Enhanced with traditional Indian spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric, this dish delivers authentic flavors perfect for serving with naan or basmati rice.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Add the chicken thigh chunks and toss well to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes, although marinating overnight will enhance the flavors.
- Sauté Onions: Heat butter and vegetable oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh ginger and cook for an additional minute until they become fragrant, ensuring the spices’ aromatic oils are released.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage, just seared to lock in flavor.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer: Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle the sugar over the mixture. Stir to combine and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken.
- Finish with Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 5 to 7 minutes until it is creamy and the chicken is fully cooked. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve hot alongside naan bread or fluffy basmati rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat for the best texture.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results compared to chicken breasts.
- Adjust the level of spices according to your heat preference by adding chili powder or fresh chilies.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with coconut cream to make the dish dairy-free, though flavor will vary.
- Leftover butter chicken tastes great the next day and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
