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There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich, savory scent of Indian Butter Chicken wafting through my kitchen. The moment I hear the sizzle of onions meeting garlic and ginger, I know a culinary adventure is underway. This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s a celebration of spices that transport you directly to the heart of India with each mouthful.

On days when I crave warmth and indulgence, this easy-to-make curry takes center stage. Despite its vibrant and complex tastes, it comes together surprisingly quickly, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests on a special occasion.

So, whether you’re looking to kick fast food to the curb or simply want to explore more homemade delights, this Indian Butter Chicken will not only fill your belly, but it will also feed your soul. Join me as I guide you through this delightful recipe, brimming with luscious cream and aromatic spices!

Why is Indian Butter Chicken so beloved?

Irresistibly Flavorful: The rich blend of spices and creamy texture creates a dish that’s addictively delicious.

Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests.

Comfort Food at Its Finest: Each bite is a warm embrace, reminding you of cozy dinners with loved ones.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it with basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s a guaranteed hit at parties, satisfying both novices and seasoned foodies alike.

Let’s explore this exciting recipe that beautifully merges simplicity with gourmet flavor!

Indian Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh – use thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• 1 teaspoon salt – essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated pepper – adds a subtle kick to balance the creaminess.

For the Sauce
• 1 onion, chopped – a fragrant base that adds depth to your Indian Butter Chicken.
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger – infuses a warm, zesty flavor into the curry.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – complements the ginger and elevates the savory notes.
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced – adjust the heat level by adding more or less as desired.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – a light choice that helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons garam masala – this spice blend is the star, infusing authentic Indian flavors into the dish.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – adjust to taste for those who enjoy an extra kick.
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom – adds a unique sweetness and complexity to the curry.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander – works in harmony with other spices to round out the flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup tomato paste – provides a rich base and a beautiful color to the sauce.
• 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth – keeps the sauce lighter and lets the spices shine.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – brings velvety richness that defines Indian Butter Chicken.
• 2 bay leaves – infuse subtle herbal notes while the sauce simmers.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter – ensures a luxurious consistency and depth of flavor.

For Garnish
• 2 to 3 lime wedges – squeeze over the top for a fresh, zesty finish that brightens the dish.
• A handful of cilantro, chopped – adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to the final presentation.

Now that you have all the ingredients for your Indian Butter Chicken, you’re one step closer to savoring an incredible meal that will make your taste buds dance with delight!

How to Make Indian Butter Chicken

Sauté Aromatics: In a large sauté pan coated with olive oil, cook the onions, jalapeno, ginger, and garlic over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes or until everything is slightly browned.
Add Spices: Stir in the garam masala, chili powder, cardamom, and coriander. Let the mixture cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to release those aromatic flavors.
Blend Smoothly: Transfer the onion and spice mixture into a food processor. Mix in the tomato paste and chicken broth, blending until smooth and silky.
Simmer Sauce: Return the puree to the sauté pan, adding in the bay leaves and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the sauce reduces to about 3 cups, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Preheat a clean pan to high heat. Add the chicken with 1 tablespoon of butter, cooking until it begins to brown and becomes opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce back into the pan with the chicken and cook over medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked. Stir in the remaining butter until melted and well incorporated.
Garnish and Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with cilantro for a vibrant finish. Serve your Indian Butter Chicken alongside fluffy basmati rice.

Optional: For extra flavor, serve with warm naan bread for dipping.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Indian Butter Chicken ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onion, ginger, garlic, and jalapeno and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Additionally, the spice mixture can be combined and stored as well, ensuring all the flavors are ready to go when you are. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the prepped aromatics, continue with the blending of the sauce, and proceed with the chicken cooking process. This method not only saves you valuable time on busy weeknights but allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality Indian Butter Chicken with just a few simple steps!

How to Store and Freeze Indian Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Indian Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the curry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s completely cooled down to avoid ice crystals.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may add a splash of cream to restore creaminess.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Indian Butter Chicken out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Always refrigerate promptly for safety.

Expert Tips for Indian Butter Chicken

Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is dried thoroughly before cooking to achieve a lovely sear and avoid excess moisture in your Indian Butter Chicken.
Balance the Spice: Taste as you go! Adjust the heat by modifying the jalapeno and chili powder to fit your preference without overpowering the dish.
Creamy Consistency: For a richer sauce, allow the heavy cream to simmer gently with the spices. Avoid boiling it to prevent curdling and preserve that luscious texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the flavors. Dried spices lose potency over time, so ensure they’re fresh for optimal taste.
Enhance Flavor Gradually: When adding spices, do so gradually and taste test to find the perfect balance of flavors in your Indian Butter Chicken.
Serve Warm: Enjoy the dish promptly, as it tastes best when fresh. Pair it with rice or naan for a harmonious and satisfying meal.

What to Serve with Indian Butter Chicken?

There’s nothing quite like savoring a flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug, perfectly paired with delightful sides.

Fluffy Basmati Rice: The light, fragrant rice absorbs the rich sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying and complete.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, this bread is perfect for scooping up the luscious curry, adding a comforting touch.
Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip that freshens the palate and balances the spices of the curry, elevating the overall experience.
Spiced Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies add texture and earthy flavors, creating a colorful, healthy contrast to the creamy chicken.
Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, this condiment provides a burst of brightness that enhances the depth of the curry.
Garlicky Spinach: A sautéed spinach dish seasoned with garlic delivers a nutrient-packed side that complements the rich curry beautifully.
Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink brings a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness, perfect for quenching thirst.
Lemon Rice: Tangy and vibrant, it offers a delightful twist that mirrors the citrus notes of the dish, harmonizing every bite.
Coconut Ladoo: For dessert, these sweet, chewy treats made of coconut milk lend a lovely tropical finish to your meal.

Each of these pairings brings something special to the table, allowing you to savor every moment of your culinary journey!

Indian Butter Chicken Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by adding your own twist to this beloved dish!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
Spicy Upgrade: Add more jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat and excite your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or basil for a fragrant twist that brightens the entire dish.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for chickpeas or paneer for a hearty vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.
Nutty Addition: Consider adding a tablespoon of almond or cashew butter to enhance creaminess and introduce a subtle nutty flavor.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate zest from a lime or lemon for an extra layer of brightness that perfectly counterbalances the spices.
Sweet Element: Toss in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.
Mild Option: If you prefer less heat, omit the jalapeno and reduce the chili powder, allowing the spices to shine without overdoing it.

Each of these variations adds a unique twist, making your Indian Butter Chicken a dish you can refresh and enjoy over and over!

Indian Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Indian Butter Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful dish. However, you can opt for chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand; just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dryness.

How should I store leftover Indian Butter Chicken?
Store leftover Indian Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the curry has cooled completely before sealing it to keep it fresh and safe.

Can I freeze Indian Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it out. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its creaminess.

What if my curry is too spicy?
If you find that your Indian Butter Chicken is spicier than desired, you can balance the heat by adding more heavy cream or even a bit of sugar to mellow the flavors. Additionally, serving it alongside basmati rice or naan can help tone down the spiciness.

How can I make Indian Butter Chicken less rich?
For a lighter version, consider replacing the heavy cream with coconut milk or using a low-fat cream alternative. You can also reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce without compromising the overall flavor too much.

Are there any common allergen concerns with this recipe?
Yes, always be cautious with this recipe if you have allergies. Common allergens include dairy from the heavy cream and butter, and spices like garlic and ginger could cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Always tailor the ingredients according to your dietary needs!