Catch a whiff of this buttery delight wafting through your kitchen — it’s like a warm hug from a friendly chef! The rich aroma of spices dances in the air, promising a flavor explosion that could make even the pickiest eater swoon. This butter chicken recipe Indian style isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will have your taste buds doing the cha-cha.
Think about those cozy nights when you need something comforting and delicious. Picture it: you’ve had a long day, and all you want is something warm and hearty. Enter our beloved butter chicken — the culinary equivalent of your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. Get ready to dive into creamy goodness that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This butter chicken recipe offers an effortless cooking experience while ensuring explosive flavors
- Customize the spice levels to suit your palate, making it as mild or spicy as your heart desires
- The vibrant colors and rich aromas bring life to any dinner table
- Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in
I remember the first time I attempted this dish; my friends couldn’t get enough of it! They practically licked their plates clean.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust the amount based on your guest list.
- Fresh Ginger: Use about an inch of ginger; it adds that aromatic zing we adore in curries.
- Garlic Cloves: You’ll need 4-5 cloves; fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile immensely.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking; it allows better control over seasoning.
- Heavy Cream: For that signature creaminess, don’t skimp on the heavy cream!
- Canned Tomatoes: Use whole or crushed tomatoes; they form the base of the luscious sauce.
- Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): These provide warmth and depth; fresh spices yield better flavor.
- Cilantro (for garnish): Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness at serving time.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all those delightful flavors.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Stir well before adding canned tomatoes (crushed or whole). Let simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened slightly.
Cook Chicken Through: Toss in the chicken pieces, coating them in the tomato mixture. Cook for around 15 minutes until fully cooked through and tender.
Add Creaminess: Once cooked, lower heat and stir in heavy cream gradually. Allow it to simmer gently for another 5 minutes until creamy and dreamy.
Garnish and Serve!: Remove from heat; garnish with fresh cilantro before serving over fluffy rice or with warm naan bread.
There you have it! A mouthwatering butter chicken recipe Indian style that’ll surely impress anyone lucky enough to share your table. Enjoy every creamy bite!
You Must Know
- This butter chicken recipe Indian triumphs in flavor and simplicity
- The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken create a dish that feels gourmet yet is achievable at home
- It’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then sauté the spices before adding tomatoes and cream for a rich sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian twist, or add extra spices to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain flavor and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spices for better flavor; they make all the difference in this butter chicken recipe Indian
- Allow the chicken to marinate longer than an hour for deeper flavors
- Serve with warm naan or rice to soak up that delicious sauce!
One time, I made this butter chicken recipe for a family gathering. Everyone was raving about it, and my cousin even asked if I was trying to lure them into marriage with my cooking skills!
FAQ
Can I use yogurt instead of cream in this butter chicken recipe Indian?
Yes, yogurt can add tanginess but may alter the texture slightly.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Serve with naan bread, basmati rice, or even quinoa for a healthier option.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
Add more chili powder or fresh chilies during cooking to increase heat.
Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the rich, creamy goodness of this authentic Indian butter chicken recipe, featuring tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato sauce with aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 inch fresh ginger
- 4–5 garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed or whole canned tomatoes
- cumin
- coriander
- garam masala
- fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Add canned tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add chicken pieces to the sauce and cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream; simmer for an additional 5 minutes until creamy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
