Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe (Print Version)
Master authentic Indian Butter Chicken with this easy recipe. Creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices create a classic, flavorful meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Indian
# Ingredients:
→ Tender Chicken & Marinade
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt
03 -
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
04 -
1 tsp red chili powder (Kashmiri or paprika), divided
05 -
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
06 -
1 tsp salt, divided
→ Velvety Tomato & Butter Base
07 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
08 -
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
09 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
10 -
1 tbsp granulated sugar
11 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Aromatic Spice Symphony
12 -
1 tsp garam masala
13 -
1 tsp ground cumin
14 -
1 tsp ground coriander
15 -
1/2 tsp red chili powder (remaining from divided)
→ Finishing Touches & Freshness
16 -
1/2 tsp fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed
17 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
18 -
Salt and pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs with 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1/2 tsp red chili powder, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well to coat the chicken. Marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature for a tender Indian Butter Chicken Recipe | Authentic & Easy.
02 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped, and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning and build a flavorful foundation.
03 -
Stir in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, and the remaining 1/2 tsp red chili powder. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
04 -
While the sauce simmers, heat a separate large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, working in batches if necessary, and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. This step adds depth to your Indian Butter Chicken Recipe | Authentic & Easy.
05 -
Add the seared chicken directly into the simmering tomato sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 tsp fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed. Mix gently until everything is well combined. Continue to simmer on low heat for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
06 -
Taste the Indian Butter Chicken Recipe | Authentic & Easy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, just before serving. Serve hot with your favorite rice or naan.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra smoky flavor, you can lightly char the chicken pieces under a broiler or on a grill pan after searing.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight!
03 -
If you don't have chicken thighs, boneless, skinless chicken breast can be used, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.
04 -
Serve this authentic Butter Chicken with basmati rice, warm naan bread, and a side of cooling raita or a simple cucumber salad.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 536 kcal
Total Fat: 33 g
Total Carbohydrate: 20 g
Protein: 49 g