Print

The Best Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 371 reviews

This classic Indian Butter Chicken recipe features tender chunks of chicken cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with warm spices. Perfectly balanced with garam masala, garlic, and ginger, this comforting dish pairs beautifully with rice or naan for an authentic Indian meal experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks

Sauce

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking and better absorption of the sauce flavors.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add spices and tomato paste: Mix in the tomato paste, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and deepen the sauce flavor.
  4. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken chunks to the skillet and stir well to coat with the spiced tomato mixture. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
  5. Add cream and simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Serve: Once the sauce is rich and creamy, remove from heat. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread for an authentic Indian butter chicken experience.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for 1 hour before cooking can enhance flavor and tenderness.
  • Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
  • Use full-fat heavy cream for a richer sauce; coconut cream can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste great reheated.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for added color and freshness if desired.

Keywords: Indian Butter Chicken, Butter Chicken recipe, Indian curry, creamy chicken curry, easy Indian dinner

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/the-best-indian-butter-chicken-recipe/