Name: Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: For Butter Chicken Marinade:; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp Cayenne pepper; ¾ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp salt; 3 chicken breasts; For Butter Chicken Sauce:; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 clove garlic; 1 jalapeno pepper; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp kosher salt; 8 oz tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; To Finish:; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil; ¼ cup fresh cilantro

This indulgent butter chicken recipe offers a rich blend of flavors with a creamy sauce that envelops tender pieces of marinated chicken. Perfect for a hearty meal, this dish brings the authentic taste of Indian cuisine to your home.

Photos of Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

When preparing this butter chicken, you might need to source ingredients like ground ginger and cayenne pepper which may not always be in the typical pantry. Additionally, the jalapeno pepper adds a unique kick, so make sure to find one when you visit the supermarket.

Ingredients For Indian Butter Chicken

Plain yogurt: A creamy base for the marinade that helps tenderize the chicken.

Lemon juice: Adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the meat.

Ground cumin: Provides a warm, earthy flavor to both the marinade and sauce.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of sweetness and warmth.

Cayenne pepper: Introduces a spicy kick to the marinade.

Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.

Ground ginger: Offers a slightly sweet and peppery zest.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Chicken breasts: The main protein, marinated for tenderness and flavor.

Unsalted butter: Used in both the sauce and cooking for a rich, creamy texture.

Garlic: Provides a strong, aromatic base for the sauce.

Jalapeno pepper: Adds heat and a distinctive peppery flavor.

Paprika: Contributes a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the sauce.

Kosher salt: Enhances the seasoning of the dish.

Tomato sauce: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.

Heavy cream: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce.

Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the chicken evenly.

Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.

One reader, Gaspard Deal says:

This Indian butter chicken recipe is a game-changer! The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, and the creamy tomato sauce is simply divine. It’s easy to follow and results in a restaurant-quality dish at home. Absolutely delicious!

Gaspard Deal

Essential Techniques for Making Indian Butter Chicken

How to marinate: Combine yogurt, lemon juice, and spices with chicken in a ziploc bag and refrigerate overnight. How to sauté garlic and jalapeño: Cook garlic and jalapeño in butter over medium heat until aromatic. How to cook spices: Stir cumin, paprika, and salt in the skillet until the spices darken in color. How to make sauce: Combine tomato sauce and heavy cream, then cook briefly. How to cook chicken: Remove excess marinade, cook chicken in butter and oil until done. How to simmer: Combine cooked chicken with sauce and bring to a simmer. How to garnish: Top the dish with fresh cilantro before serving.

How To Make Indian Butter Chicken

This butter chicken recipe is an Indian-inspired curry dish with a tomato sauce and cream-based broth. You get a hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Marinate Time: 8 hours

Total: 8 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Butter Chicken Marinade:

1cupplain yogurt
1tbsplemon juice
2tspground cumin
1tspground cinnamon
1tspcayenne pepper
¾tspblack pepper
1tspground ginger
1tspsalt
3chicken breasts,boneless, skinless

For Butter Chicken Sauce:

1tbspunsalted butter
1clovegarlic,minced
1jalapeno pepper,finely chopped
2tspground cumin
2tsppaprika
1tspkosher salt
8oztomato sauce,canned
1cupheavy cream

To Finish:

2tbspunsalted butter
1tbspvegetable oil
¼cupfresh cilantro,chopped

Instructions

In a large ziploc bag the night before cooking, add the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, black pepper, ginger, salt and chicken and mix well. Marinate overnight.
Add the butter, garlic and jalapeño to a large skillet on medium heat for 1 minute until the garlic is aromatic.
Add the 2 teaspoons cumin, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon salt and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until the spices darken in color.
Add in the tomato sauce and heavy cream, stir and cook for 1 minute.
Remove the sauce from the pan and keep to the side, then wipe the skillet clean.
Add in 2 tablespoons of butter and vegetable oil to the large skillet on medium high heat.
Remove most of the marinade (and discard this marinade) from the chicken and add it to the skillet.
Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until cooked through.
Top with sauce and bring to a simmer, then top with cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 405.49kcal
Fat: 32.77g
Saturated Fat: 16.19g
Trans Fat: 0.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.34g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.09g
Carbohydrates: 7.54g
Fiber: 1.53g
Sugar: 4.69g
Protein: 21.44g
Cholesterol: 130.60mg
Sodium: 521.69mg
Calcium: 115.22mg
Potassium: 471.54mg
Iron: 2.32mg
Vitamin A: 281.51µg
Vitamin C: 7.54mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Indian Butter Chicken

To achieve the most flavorful butter chicken, make sure to marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the yogurt and spices to deeply penetrate the chicken, resulting in a tender and aromatic dish. Additionally, when cooking the garlic and jalapeño in butter, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Butter Chicken

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the yogurt and spices with the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the cumin, paprika, and other spices ahead of time and store them in small containers.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop the jalapeño and cilantro using a food processor.

Cook chicken in batches: If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

plain yogurt - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar texture and tanginess, making it a good alternative for the marinade.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which helps tenderize the chicken.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a warm, nutty flavor that can complement the other spices in the marinade.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg provides a similar warm, sweet spice that can enhance the flavor profile.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder offers a similar level of heat and can be used to spice up the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can still provide the necessary heat and spice.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Fresh ginger can offer a more vibrant and aromatic flavor; use about twice the amount of fresh ginger.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar level of saltiness.
chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and remain tender and juicy when cooked.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, nutty flavor and is commonly used in Indian cooking, making it a suitable alternative.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch; use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove of garlic.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but can provide a similar flavor and heat level.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can offer a warm, nutty flavor that complements the other spices in the sauce.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor that can enhance the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used in a slightly lesser quantity due to its finer grain.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a similar texture and flavor, though you may need to cook them down slightly.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk offers a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the spices.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee provides a rich, nutty flavor and is commonly used in Indian cuisine.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for cooking.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can provide a similar fresh, herbaceous note to finish the dish.

How to Beautifully Present Butter Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the butter chicken in a small, elegant portion to highlight the richness and depth of the dish without overwhelming the palate.
Use a pristine white plate: A clean, white plate will create a beautiful contrast with the vibrant colors of the butter chicken and sauce, making the dish visually appealing.
Create a sauce pool: Place a small pool of the butter chicken sauce on the plate first, then gently place the cooked chicken pieces on top. This ensures the sauce is an integral part of each bite.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Finely chop the fresh cilantro and sprinkle it delicately over the butter chicken to add a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note.
Add a side of aromatic rice: Serve a small mound of basmati rice or jeera rice beside the butter chicken. The rice should be fluffy and aromatic, complementing the rich flavors of the chicken.
Incorporate a crispy element: Add a piece of papadum or a small naan bread wedge to the plate for a contrasting texture and an additional layer of flavor.
Drizzle with clarified butter: Just before serving, lightly drizzle some clarified butter (ghee) over the butter chicken to enhance the richness and add a glossy finish.
Use microgreens for finesse: Add a few microgreens on top of the butter chicken for an elegant touch and a hint of freshness.
Serve with a lemon wedge: Include a small lemon wedge on the side of the plate. This allows diners to add a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the dish.
Ensure perfect temperature: Serve the butter chicken hot, ensuring the sauce is warm and the chicken is tender and juicy, providing the best possible dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Indian Butter Chicken

Large ziploc bag: Used for marinating the chicken overnight to ensure it absorbs all the flavors.
Large skillet: Essential for cooking both the sauce and the chicken, providing even heat distribution.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring spices and other ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients for the marinade before transferring to the ziploc bag.
Spatula: Handy for stirring the sauce and ensuring the spices are well mixed.
Knife: Needed for chopping the garlic and jalapeño pepper.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken pieces while cooking.
Measuring cup: Important for measuring the yogurt, tomato sauce, and heavy cream accurately.
Paper towels: Useful for wiping the skillet clean between cooking the sauce and the chicken.
Serving spoon: Ideal for serving the finished butter chicken.
Small bowl: Can be used to hold the chopped garlic and jalapeño before adding them to the skillet.

Storing and Freezing Indian Butter Chicken

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Indian butter chicken:

Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze, portion the cooled butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Squeeze out any excess air to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, thaw the butter chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Transfer to a saucepan and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth if needed to thin out the sauce.
For best results, store the butter chicken and rice or naan separately. Reheat the rice or naan separately and serve alongside the reheated butter chicken.
If you have leftover marinated chicken that hasn't been cooked, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed in the recipe.

How To Reheat Leftover Butter Chicken

Reheat the butter chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures even heating and prevents the sauce from separating or burning.
If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth to thin it out and restore its creamy texture.
For a quicker option, transfer the butter chicken to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you have stored the chicken and sauce separately, reheat the sauce first using one of the above methods, then add the chicken pieces and simmer until they are warmed through. This helps prevent the chicken from overcooking and becoming dry.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover butter chicken, shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or wraps, along with some fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Transform your leftover butter chicken into a comforting soup by adding it to a pot with some chicken broth, diced vegetables, and a handful of rice or noodles. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Interesting Fact About Butter Chicken

A random fact about this recipe is that butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, originated in Delhi, India, in the 1950s. It was created by accident when leftover chicken was mixed with a rich tomato sauce that contained butter and cream.

Is Making Butter Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

The Indian butter chicken recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. With common pantry staples like spices and yogurt, the main expense lies in the chicken breasts and heavy cream. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Considering the rich flavors and satisfying nature of the dish, it offers great value for money. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Butter Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Indian butter chicken recipe, while undeniably delicious, may not be the healthiest choice due to several factors:

The marinade and sauce contain high-fat ingredients like plain yogurt, heavy cream, and butter, which can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and increased calorie intake.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, which may be concerning for individuals with high blood pressure or those watching their sodium intake.
The use of vegetable oil for cooking adds unnecessary saturated fats to the dish.

However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients, such as:

Chicken breasts, which are a lean source of protein.
Garlic and jalapeño pepper, which offer potential health benefits like boosting the immune system and promoting heart health.
Spices like cumin, cinnamon, and ginger, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may aid in digestion.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on flavor, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the plain yogurt in the marinade with low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt to reduce the overall fat content while maintaining the creamy texture.
Swap out the heavy cream in the sauce with coconut milk or a mixture of low-fat milk and cornstarch for a lighter alternative.
Reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce and for cooking, or opt for a healthier cooking oil like olive oil.
Use low-sodium tomato sauce and adjust the added salt to taste, ensuring you don't overdo it.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients.
Serve the butter chicken with a side of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber and protein.

Editor's Opinion on This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

This butter chicken recipe is well-structured and flavorful, with a balanced blend of spices in both the marinade and sauce. Marinating the chicken overnight ensures deep flavor penetration. The use of heavy cream adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce, while the fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous finish. However, consider adding a touch of garam masala for an extra layer of complexity. Cooking the chicken separately before combining it with the sauce helps maintain its texture. Overall, this recipe promises a delicious and authentic Indian butter chicken experience.

Enhance Your Indian Butter Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Naan: Garlic Naan: Imagine tearing into a warm, fluffy bread infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This side dish is perfect for scooping up every last bit of that luscious butter chicken sauce.

Cucumber Raita: Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based dip with finely chopped cucumbers, a hint of mint, and a sprinkle of spices. It provides a cool contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the main dish.

Jeera Rice: Jeera Rice: Fragrant basmati rice cooked with cumin seeds and a touch of ghee. This simple yet flavorful rice dish complements the creamy and spicy notes of the butter chicken perfectly.

Mango Chutney: Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy chutney made from ripe mangoes, sugar, and a blend of spices. It adds a burst of fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory butter chicken.

Aloo Gobi: Aloo Gobi: A delightful vegetable medley of potatoes and cauliflower cooked with turmeric, cumin, and other spices. This hearty side dish adds a comforting and earthy element to your meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Indian Butter Chicken

Chicken Tikka Masala: Dive into the rich flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala. This dish features marinated chicken grilled to perfection and then simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Serve it with naan or basmati rice for a complete meal.

Paneer Butter Masala: For a vegetarian twist, try Paneer Butter Masala. Cubes of paneer are cooked in a luscious, buttery tomato and cream sauce, infused with aromatic spices. Perfect with roti or jeera rice.

Lamb Rogan Josh: Experience the depth of flavors in Lamb Rogan Josh. Tender pieces of lamb are slow-cooked in a fragrant blend of yogurt, tomatoes, and spices. This dish pairs wonderfully with naan or pulao.

Vegetable Korma: Savor the creamy goodness of Vegetable Korma. A medley of vegetables is cooked in a rich, spiced coconut milk and yogurt sauce. Serve it with rice or paratha for a delightful meal.

Mango Chicken Curry: Add a fruity twist with Mango Chicken Curry. Juicy pieces of chicken are cooked in a sweet and spicy mango sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Enjoy it with steamed rice or quinoa.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Indian Butter Chicken

Appetizers:

Spiced Potato Fritters: Spiced Potato Fritters are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine crispy, golden-brown bites infused with cumin, coriander, and a hint of turmeric. These fritters are perfect when paired with a tangy tamarind chutney or a refreshing mint yogurt dip. The combination of spices and the creamy interior make these fritters irresistible. Serve them hot to enjoy the full burst of flavors.

Paneer Tikka Skewers: Paneer Tikka Skewers offer a burst of flavors with each bite. Marinated in a blend of yogurt, garam masala, and lemon juice, the paneer cubes are grilled to perfection. The smoky char from the grill enhances the spices, making each skewer a delightful experience. Pair these skewers with a side of green chutney and a sprinkle of fresh coriander for an appetizer that’s sure to impress.

Desserts:

Mango Kulfi: Mango Kulfi is a delightful Indian frozen dessert that combines the richness of condensed milk with the tropical sweetness of mangoes. This creamy treat is infused with cardamom and garnished with pistachios for a touch of crunch. Serve it in traditional kulfi molds or simply in small bowls for a refreshing end to your meal.

Gulab Jamun: Gulab Jamun is a classic Indian dessert made from milk solids that are deep-fried and soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. The syrup is often flavored with rose water and cardamom, giving the dessert its signature aroma and taste. These soft, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings are perfect for any festive occasion or as a sweet finish to your butter chicken meal.

Why trust this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe:

This recipe for Indian butter chicken is a tried-and-true favorite, combining authentic flavors with easy-to-follow steps. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich spices overnight, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Cooking the sauce separately allows for a perfect blend of tomato sauce and heavy cream, creating a creamy, aromatic dish. The final touch of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Trust this recipe for a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Indian Butter Chicken Recipe in the World Cuisines forum section and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

I recommend marinating the chicken overnight. This gives the spices and yogurt plenty of time to infuse the chicken with flavor. If you're short on time, try to marinate for at least 4 hours.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often stay juicier than breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative if you're looking to make the dish lighter or dairy-free. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How spicy is this butter chicken?

The spice level is moderate due to the cayenne pepper and jalapeño. If you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce or omit these ingredients. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Butter chicken actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.