If you are craving a dish that effortlessly combines rich creaminess with vibrant spices, you’ve come to the right place. This Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe is a heartwarming favorite that brings together tender pieces of chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of yogurt and spices, gently simmered in a luscious tomato and cream sauce. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet comforting, perfect for sharing with family and friends when you want to impress without fussing over complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the tangy yogurt marinade to the warm spices and velvety cream, these elements come together simply but beautifully to create an unforgettable meal.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (1 1/2 lbs): Thighs offer extra juiciness, but breasts work wonderfully for a leaner option.
- Plain yogurt (1 cup): A key ingredient for tenderizing and adding subtle tang to the chicken.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the marinade and balances the richness of the dish.
- Ground cumin (2 teaspoons): Provides an earthy base note essential to Indian flavors.
- Cayenne pepper (1-2 teaspoons): Adds heat; adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Ground coriander (2 teaspoons): Offers a citrusy, floral layer of complexity.
- Ground turmeric (1 teaspoon): Gives a gorgeous golden hue and subtle warmth.
- Garam masala (1 tablespoon): A fragrant blend of spices that ties everything together beautifully.
- Butter (1 tablespoon, plus more optional): Creates richness in the cooking base and enhances the sauce.
- Large onion, finely chopped (1): Provides sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced): Fresh and pungent, it’s a flavorful foundation.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, minced): Adds a bright, zesty heat that wakes up the palate.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): Forms the hearty, tangy backbone of the sauce.
- Heavy cream or coconut milk (1 cup): Delivers the signature creamy texture and mellow sweetness.
- Cilantro leaves (1/4 cup, chopped): Fresh herbaceousness to finish the dish with a burst of color.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cayenne, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, making sure each one is well coated. This marinade is the secret to tender, flavorful chicken, so give it time — ideally at least an hour or overnight if you can plan ahead. The spices will infuse deeply, creating a bold foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Toss in the finely chopped onions and cook them slowly until they turn soft and golden brown—this gentle caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and builds fantastic depth of flavor for your sauce.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Mix in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking just long enough for their aromas to bloom, about one to two minutes. This step ensures the base is fragrant and perfectly seasoned before the chicken joins the pan.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Next, add the marinated chicken, spreading it evenly in the skillet. Brown it on all sides to lock in juices and develop a subtle crust. This process, which takes around 8 to 10 minutes, enhances both texture and flavor, setting the stage for the luscious sauce.
Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes
Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken and spices evenly. Let this simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to intensify. You’ll start to recognize that rich, comforting aroma that Butter Chicken is famous for.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
Turn the heat to low, then slowly stir in the cream or coconut milk, folding it gently into the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, patiently letting everything come together until the chicken is tender and the sauce is irresistibly creamy and smooth.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Give the sauce a final taste, adjusting salt or adding a pinch more cayenne if you like a bit more warmth. Sprinkle in freshly chopped cilantro for a vibrant burst of freshness and color just before serving.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Serve your Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken piping hot, ready to enjoy with your favorite sides. The luscious sauce and tender chicken will make this a standout meal any day of the week.
How to Serve Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves are classic, adding a burst of color and herbaceous brightness that complements the rich curry beautifully. For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted fenugreek leaves or a drizzle of cream right before serving to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly, or warm naan bread for dipping. You can also serve it alongside sautéed greens or a crisp cucumber salad to balance the richness with freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the butter chicken in beautiful individual bowls, topped with a dollop of yogurt and fresh herbs. Alternatively, try rolling the creamy chicken filling inside a warm naan for flavorful wraps, or spoon it over roasted cauliflower steaks for a gluten-free option that thrills the senses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe is just as delightful the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your second helping even better.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, this butter chicken freezes well. Freeze it in a sealed container for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through and creamy again.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the butter chicken over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of water or cream during reheating can restore the sauce’s luscious texture, making your leftovers taste freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, especially if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily compared to thighs.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use oil in place of butter. This keeps the creamy texture and adds a subtle tropical note that pairs beautifully with the spices.
How spicy is the Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe?
The heat is adjustable with the amount of cayenne pepper you use. Start with 1 teaspoon for mild warmth or increase up to 2 teaspoons if you love a spicier kick.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight allows the spices to penetrate deeper, making the dish even more flavorful. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated during the marinating time.
What can I serve instead of rice?
If you want to switch it up, serve the butter chicken with naan, roti, or even over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Each option offers a unique way to enjoy the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about diving into a bowl of this Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that warms the heart and fills the home with inviting aromas. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a tasty weeknight meal, give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a treasured favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
A rich and creamy Indian spiced butter chicken recipe featuring tender marinated chicken simmered in a flavorful tomato and cream sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro. Perfectly balanced with aromatic spices, this classic dish offers a comforting meal served best with basmati rice or naan.
Ingredients
Marinade and Chicken
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1–2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Additional butter (optional for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cayenne, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour; for best results, refrigerate overnight to develop deeper flavors.
- Sauté Onions: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the base flavor for the sauce.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until aromatic but not browned, enhancing the overall taste.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Brown the chicken pieces evenly on all sides over medium heat, approximately 8-10 minutes, locking in juices and flavor.
- Simmer with Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine with the chicken and spices. Allow the mixture to simmer on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and the flavors meld.
- Finish with Cream: Lower the heat and gently stir in heavy cream or coconut milk. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce turns creamy and rich.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or cayenne pepper if desired. Garnish the butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro to add a fresh herbal note.
- Serve: Serve the creamy Indian spiced butter chicken hot alongside basmati rice, naan, or your preferred bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Using chicken thighs provides juicier and more flavorful results compared to breasts.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference for a milder or spicier dish.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option with a subtle coconut flavor.
- Additional butter can be added at the end for an even richer sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
