Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience is a delightfully creamy dish that brings the flavors of India right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just a cozy night in. With its rich spices and tender chicken, it promises an amazing experience that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken Marinade
- For Cooking
- How to Make Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Step 3: Sauté Onions
- Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
- Step 5: Cook Chicken
- Step 6: Add Tomato Purée
- Step 7: Stir in Cream
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- How to Serve Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- With Basmati Rice
- With Naan Bread
- With Raita
- Garnished with Fresh Cilantro
- With Pickled Vegetables
- How to Perfect Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Best Side Dishes for Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Reheating Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- How spicy is this butter chicken recipe?
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- What sides pair well with Authentic Indian Butter Chicken?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The blend of spices creates a deep, savory flavor that elevates the dish.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for all cooking levels.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, naan, or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce is appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Gather the following equipment before starting:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Large pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Large pan: Provides enough space to sauté and cook the chicken evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.

Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Cooking
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How to Make Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Onions
In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Cook Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Add Tomato Purée
Pour in the tomato puree, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Stir in Cream
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, mixing until well incorporated. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously rich Authentic Indian Butter Chicken!
How to Serve Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
Serving your Authentic Indian Butter Chicken is just as important as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate this dish and create a memorable dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Basmati Rice
- Basmati rice is a classic choice that pairs perfectly with butter chicken, soaking up the rich sauce and enhancing the flavors.
With Naan Bread
- Soft naan bread is perfect for scooping up the butter chicken, adding an enjoyable texture to each bite.
With Raita
- A refreshing yogurt-based raita can balance the spiciness of the dish, offering a cool contrast that complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnished with Fresh Cilantro
- Adding fresh cilantro as a garnish not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of fresh flavor to each serving.
With Pickled Vegetables
- Tangy pickled vegetables provide an excellent contrast to the creamy butter chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor.
How to Perfect Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
Creating the perfect Authentic Indian Butter Chicken involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve culinary success.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies flavors and results in juicier meat.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices provide more vibrant flavors compared to pre-ground ones; consider grinding spices right before use.
- Control Heat: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning; this ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to develop fully.
- Balance Creaminess: Adjust heavy cream quantity based on your preference for richness; feel free to substitute with coconut cream for a lighter option.
- Simmer Slowly: A longer simmer time allows ingredients to meld together, creating a smoother sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
Complementing your butter chicken with delicious side dishes can turn your meal into a feast. Here are some fantastic options:
- Jeera Rice: Fragrant cumin-infused basmati rice offers a flavorful base that pairs well with rich sauces.
- Aloo Gobi: This spiced potato and cauliflower dish provides a hearty vegetarian option that contrasts nicely with butter chicken.
- Chana Masala: Chickpeas cooked in spices offer protein and fiber, creating balance and variety on your plate.
- Palak Paneer: Creamy spinach with paneer cheese adds color and nutrition while enhancing your meal’s flavor profile.
- Vegetable Samosas: Crispy samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas make for delightful appetizers or snacks alongside your main dish.
- Methi Paratha: These whole wheat flatbreads flavored with fenugreek add earthy notes that enhance the overall dining experience.
- Onion Salad: A simple salad made with sliced onions, lemon juice, and chilies can cleanse the palate between bites of rich butter chicken.
- Dal Makhani: Creamy black lentils cooked slowly provide another rich texture that complements butter chicken beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating the Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe can be a rewarding experience. However, certain mistakes can hinder your cooking. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not marinating long enough: Marinating chicken for at least an hour enhances flavor. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger builds a flavor base. Don’t rush this step; let them caramelize for optimal taste.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh spices and high-quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor. Invest in good ingredients for an amazing dish.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy pieces.
- Neglecting to adjust spice levels: Everyone’s heat tolerance is different. Taste as you go and adjust spices to suit your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding the Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Turkey thighs work well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
How spicy is this butter chicken recipe?
The spice level depends on your choice of red chili powder. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or plant-based cream alternatives.
What sides pair well with Authentic Indian Butter Chicken?
Serve it with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe offers rich flavors and satisfying textures that everyone will enjoy. It’s versatile—feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to be a hit!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of our Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience. This delightful dish features tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices and yogurt, simmered in a luscious tomato and cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe brings the vibrant flavors of India right to your table. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up every bit of the savory sauce. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this easy-to-follow recipe will impress everyone at your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Pour in the tomato puree, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, mixing until well incorporated. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 165mg