Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe (Print Version)
Indian Butter Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Experience authentic flavors with this classic dish, perfect for any meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Indian
# Ingredients:
→ Marinated Chicken Jewels
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 -
1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt
03 -
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
04 -
1 tbsp garlic, minced
05 -
1 tbsp lemon juice
06 -
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
07 -
1/2 tsp salt
→ Velvety Tomato Gravy Base
08 -
6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
09 -
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
10 -
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
11 -
1 tbsp garlic, minced
12 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
13 -
1/4 cup raw cashews
→ Aromatic Spice Symphony & Finishing
14 -
2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder, divided
15 -
1 1/2 tsp garam masala
16 -
1 tsp cumin powder
17 -
1 tsp coriander powder
18 -
1 tbsp fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi), crushed
19 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
20 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs with 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt, 1 tbsp fresh ginger, 1 tbsp garlic, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well and marinate for at least 20 minutes, or ideally longer for the best Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.
02 -
Melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary, and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 -
In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Add 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1 tbsp fresh ginger and 1 tbsp garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
04 -
Add 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes and 1/4 cup raw cashews to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld for your Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.
05 -
Carefully transfer the tomato mixture to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Return the velvety gravy to the pan. Stir in 1 1/2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, and 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder.
06 -
Add the seared chicken back into the gravy. Stir in 1 tbsp fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi), crushed, and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and the flavors to deepen, creating a rich Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.
07 -
Melt the remaining 2 tbsp unsalted butter and swirl into the finished butter chicken. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, before serving hot with rice or naan.
# Notes:
01 -
For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or even overnight in the refrigerator. This tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with spices.
02 -
Ensure the gravy is blended until absolutely smooth. A high-speed blender works best, but a regular blender will also achieve a silky texture with enough blending time.
03 -
Kashmiri chili powder provides a vibrant red color and mild heat. If unavailable, use paprika for color and a pinch of cayenne for heat, adjusting to your preference.
04 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It often tastes even better the next day!
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Dutch oven
03 -
Mixing bowls
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Chef's knife
08 -
Blender
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 680 kcal
Total Fat: 52 g
Total Carbohydrate: 17 g
Protein: 41 g