Description
Authentic Indian Butter Chicken is a comforting, creamy curry with tender chicken simmered in a buttery tomato sauce infused with warm spices. This restaurant-style dish is surprisingly simple to make at home and delivers bold, rich flavors that are mild enough for the whole family. Perfect with rice or naan, it’s a cozy classic you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
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680 g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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240 g plain yogurt
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15 ml lemon juice
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8 g garam masala
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5 g ground cumin
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5 g ground coriander
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5 g turmeric powder
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5 g red chili powder (adjust to taste)
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5 g salt
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60 g unsalted butter
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2.5 cm piece fresh ginger, grated
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425 g canned tomato purée
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240 ml heavy cream
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Marinate chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight preferred).
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Cook aromatics: Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1 minute.
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Add chicken: Transfer marinated chicken to the pan and cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked.
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Build sauce: Stir in tomato purée and simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
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Finish creamy sauce: Lower the heat, pour in heavy cream, and simmer 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes silky. Adjust seasoning.
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Serve: Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Notes
Marinate chicken overnight for the best flavor.
Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breasts.
Adjust chili powder to control the spice level.
Swap cream with coconut milk and yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
Freezes well for meal prep—store up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Plats
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian