Name: Delicious Indian Butter Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) whole tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; Spices: cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala; Salt and pepper to taste; Cilantro for garnish

The aroma wafts through the air like a warm hug from an old friend. It’s the kind of scent that makes you weak in the knees — buttery goodness mingling with spices that whisper sweet nothings to your taste buds. Picture this: tender pieces of chicken bathed in a creamy tomato sauce, so delicious that even your inner chef can’t resist sneaking a taste straight from the pot.

Now let me take you back to the time when I decided it was high time I learned how to master this glorious dish. My friends were throwing a dinner party, and I thought what better way to impress them than with my very own homemade butter chicken recipe? Spoiler alert: it turned out to be a culinary adventure filled with laughter and just a tiny bit of chaos.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken recipe is surprisingly simple yet delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite
It’s visually stunning on any dinner table and can easily be paired with rice or naan
You can customize the spice levels to suit everyone’s palate, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home

Everyone raved about my butter chicken; some even asked for seconds! It’s safe to say my dinner party was an absolute hit.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their richness and tenderness; they absorb flavors beautifully.
Fresh Ginger: Choose plump ginger roots; their zingy flavor adds depth to the sauce.
Canned Tomatoes: Use whole tomatoes for a fresher taste; crush them by hand for texture.
Heavy Cream: A must for that silky finish; don’t skimp here!
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Turmeric): These warm spices create that signature Indian flavor profile.
Garam Masala: A blend essential for authentic taste; add it at the end for maximum aroma.
Salt and Pepper: To season everything perfectly according to your taste.
Cilantro (for garnish): Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, garlic paste, ginger paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and chili powder. Add chicken thighs; coat well. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Sear the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sear marinated chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Remove from pan and set aside.

Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add more butter along with chopped onions. Cook until translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and ginger until aromatic (1 minute).

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in crushed canned tomatoes along with remaining spices. Simmer gently while stirring occasionally until thickened (about 10-15 minutes).

Combine Everything!: Return seared chicken to the pan; cover with sauce. Pour in heavy cream; stir until everything is beautifully combined. Simmer on low heat until cooked through (another 10 minutes).

Garnish & Serve!: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over your finished dish before serving hot with naan or rice. Enjoy every mouthful!

And there you have it! Your very own Indian butter chicken recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!

You Must Know

This butter chicken recipe Indian is a creamy delight that brings warmth and flavor to your table
The rich aroma fills the kitchen, making it impossible not to crave a taste
Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish never fails to impress

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices, then sear it before adding to the sauce. This ensures maximum flavor and tenderness in each bite.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter version, or toss in some spinach for added nutrition. Customize the heat level with more or fewer chilies.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain creaminess without overcooking.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat
Don’t skimp on marination time; letting it sit overnight enhances flavors dramatically
Always taste and adjust spices before serving; every palate is unique!

It was one of those chilly evenings when I first attempted this butter chicken recipe Indian. Friends gathered around, their faces lighting up as they took their first bites. The compliments kept rolling in, making me feel like a culinary rockstar.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other meats for this butter chicken recipe Indian?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with lamb or paneer for a delicious twist.

How spicy is this butter chicken recipe Indian?

The spice level depends on your preference; adjust chilies based on your heat tolerance.

What side dishes pair well with butter chicken?

Serve this dish with basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh cucumber salad for balance.