If you’re searching for a dish that combines rich flavor, silky texture, and a touch of indulgence, this Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is an absolute showstopper. It’s a beloved classic that marries tender chicken thighs with a luxurious, tomato-based cream sauce infused with fragrant spices. From the first bite, you’ll be wrapped in a warm embrace of buttery goodness and aromatic warmth that only authentic Indian cuisine can deliver. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. These simple, but carefully selected items give the dish its signature depth, creaminess, and vibrant color.
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Using thighs keeps the chicken juicy and tender throughout cooking.
- 1 cup plain full-fat yogurt: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides a bright acidity to balance rich flavors.
- 1 tablespoon garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that forms the backbone of the complex taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Contributes a warm earthiness and a beautiful golden hue.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Imparts a smoky, nutty flavor essential to Indian cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds gentle heat and vibrant color to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the palate.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For searing chicken perfectly and starting the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: This delivers that silky, iconic butter richness.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Softens and sweetens, creating a flavor base.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungency and depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Brings a zesty, warming spice note.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Provides a fresh, citrusy undertone.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Mildly smoky, it boosts color and complexity.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: The rich, tangy heart of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that signature creamy lusciousness you’ll swoon over.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances acidity and rounds out flavors.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a burst of freshness just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by mixing the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with this fragrant marinade. Cover and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour — though I promise, overnight marinating will make the flavors sing even louder.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken pieces in the hot oil and sear them until beautifully browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in the juices and adds a wonderful caramelized flavor. Once golden, remove the chicken and set it aside for the next step.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Base
In the same skillet, melt the butter, letting it foam slightly. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and turning golden—around 6 to 8 minutes. This slow cooking draws out their natural sweetness and builds a rich foundation.
Step 4: Add Aromatics and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, fresh ginger, ground coriander, and paprika. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with that irresistible, fragrant aroma—this step is crucial for unlocking the depth of flavors that define this dish.
Step 5: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This not only thickens the sauce but also lets the spices marry beautifully with the tangy tomatoes.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream and Sugar
Turn the heat down to low and gently stir in the heavy cream and sugar. The cream transforms the sauce into a velvety dream, while the sugar softens any sharp edges without making it sweet.
Step 7: Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer together for 10 to 15 minutes. This final cooking step ensures the chicken is perfectly tender and infused with the sauce’s creamy, spicy goodness while allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The final touch that makes this dish pop is a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. It adds a refreshing contrast to the richness and brings a burst of color that makes your meal look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Serve this Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm, soft naan bread to soak up every luscious drop of the sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a simple cucumber raita or a crisp salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve the butter chicken in mini copper bowls or rustic terracotta dishes, garnished with whole cilantro sprigs and a wedge of lemon. Pair with saffron-infused rice or flavored with toasted nuts for an extra special twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover butter chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making each next-day bite even more satisfying.
Freezing
This dish freezes well too. For longer storage, place the cooled butter chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When defrosted, it retains its creamy texture and rich flavors perfectly.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. You can add a splash of cream or water if the sauce is too thick. Microwave reheating works too, but do so gently in short intervals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can, but chicken thighs are preferred because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. Chicken breast can dry out more easily, so be sure to watch the cooking time closely if you substitute.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free yogurt in the marinade to make a delicious dairy-free version of this Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a mild warmth thanks to the chili powder, but it’s easily adjustable. If you prefer heat, increase the chili powder or add fresh chopped chili. For a milder version, reduce the spices accordingly.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and even make the sauce a day before. Combine and reheat just before serving for a stress-free dinner party.
What’s the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?
Both are creamy Indian chicken dishes but butter chicken tends to have a richer, buttery tomato sauce and is usually less spicy. Chicken tikka masala often includes grilled chicken pieces and is a bit more spiced and smoky.
Final Thoughts
Making this Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with heartwarming aromas and ends with a mouthwatering feast. It’s approachable, delicious, and sure to win over anyone lucky enough to taste it. So grab those spices, get cooking, and treat yourself and your loved ones to one of the most comforting dishes around!
Print
Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating time)
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Indian Butter Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender, marinated chicken thighs simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. This classic North Indian recipe combines aromatic spices with a smooth, luscious texture, making it a perfect comforting main course served alongside basmati rice or naan bread.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain full-fat yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken pieces and mix well to coat every piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though marinating overnight is recommended for the best flavor infusion.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in flavor and texture. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become soft and golden brown, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. This adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, fresh ginger, ground coriander, and paprika. Cook together for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, releasing the aromatic oils and enhancing the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to reduce slightly and deepen in flavor.
- Incorporate Cream and Sugar: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the heavy cream and sugar. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors and develop a creamy consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, submerging it in the creamy tomato sauce. Simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a luscious consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of color and fresh herb flavor. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, grill or broil the chicken after marinating before adding it to the sauce to add a smoky depth.
- Serve with basmati rice or warm naan bread to complement the rich sauce.
- Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream to make this dish dairy-free.
