Easy and Delicious Butter Chicken Recipe

Name: Butter Chicken Recipe Indian
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup canned tomato puree; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 4 garlic cloves, minced; Spices: cumin, coriander, garam masala; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

March 18, 2025

Updated:

March 18, 2025

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The aroma wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a creamy, spiced sauce that makes you feel like royalty. This butter chicken recipe Indian style is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart.

Now picture this: you gather your loved ones around the table, laughter fills the room, and suddenly you find yourself in culinary nirvana as they dive into this delectable dish. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings—one bite and you’ll be hooked!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken recipe Indian style is a breeze to make, even for beginner cooks
The balance of spices creates a rich flavor profile that’s truly unforgettable
Its vibrant colors bring life to any dinner table while being versatile enough for pairings with rice or naan
Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at parties!

I once made this dish for friends who claimed they didn’t enjoy Indian food—by the end of the meal, I had them begging for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juicy texture; they hold up wonderfully in the sauce.
Unsalted Butter: Essential for richness; don’t skimp on this ingredient for that classic flavor.
Canned Tomato Puree: Use high-quality puree for a deep tomato flavor that forms the base of the sauce.
Heavy Cream: Adds lusciousness; feel free to substitute half-and-half if you’re watching calories.
Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for a zesty kick; it elevates the overall flavor profile significantly.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is a must; it brings warmth and depth to our beloved sauce.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): These spices create complexity; adjust levels based on your spice tolerance.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; don’t forget to taste as you go!
Cilantro (for garnish): Adds freshness and color once plated; it’s like confetti on your culinary masterpiece!

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 and chop the garlic and ginger finely. Measure out your spices to make cooking smooth sailing.

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter until bubbly. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes per side.

Create the Sauce: Remove the browned chicken temporarily. In the same skillet, add more butter if needed along with garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant—around 1-2 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in canned tomato puree along with cumin, coriander, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Cook until slightly thickened—approximately 10 minutes.

Add Creamy Goodness: Reduce heat to low before pouring in heavy cream slowly while stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer gently for 10 minutes until saucy perfection emerges.

Combine Chicken & Sauce: Return seared chicken pieces into the skillet. Simmer everything together for another 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Serve hot over steamed basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread—trust me, you’ll want something to soak up all that delicious sauce! Enjoy every creamy bite!

You Must Know

This butter chicken recipe Indian offers a rich, creamy texture that warms the soul
Using fresh spices elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience
Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it’s a dish that brings everyone together with its inviting aroma

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavors, then sauté onions and spices before adding tomato puree for depth.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap yogurt for coconut milk for a dairy-free version or add a hint of lime for brightness.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh spices to enhance flavor; they make all the difference in this butter chicken recipe Indian
Marinating overnight intensifies the taste, creating a tender and succulent chicken
Pair with naan or rice for a complete meal experience

Memories of my first attempt at butter chicken come flooding back; I accidentally set off the smoke alarm! Friends still laugh about it while enjoying my perfected version.

FAQs