Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is a delightful blend of spices and creamy goodness that you can easily whip up at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish offers the rich flavors of traditional Indian cuisine in a convenient format. Enjoy it over rice, paired with naan, or even on its own for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple prep and cooking methods, you can enjoy a gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices like curry powder and garam masala brings an authentic taste straight to your table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or with naan for a complete meal that suits any preference.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! Let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please everyone at the dinner table, making it great for family meals or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe successfully, having the right tools will simplify the process. Here’s what you need before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Large bowl: Provides ample space to mix ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

• 2 medium yellow onions, peeled, cut in half and sliced (~13 oz)
• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 3 medium carrots, diced (5-6 oz)
• 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (~2-inch piece)
• 3 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• 1 tablespoon salted butter, chilled and cut into pieces*
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (whole, low-fat, or fat-free)
• ½ cup half-and-half

How to Make Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

In the bottom of a slow cooker (6-quart or 8-quart), layer the sliced onions.

Step 2: Mix Chicken Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:
1. boneless chicken
2. bell pepper
3. carrots
4. tomato sauce
5. tomato paste
6. lemon juice
7. garlic
8. ginger
9. curry powder
10. garam masala
11. salt

Toss until well combined.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Add the saucy chicken mixture over the sliced onions in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Butter

Dot pieces of butter over the top of the marinated chicken mixture.

Step 5: Cook It Up!

Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook:
– On high for 4½ hours, or
– On low for 6½ hours.

Step 6: Final Touches

After cooking time is up:
1. Remove the lid and stir all ingredients until well combined.
2. Turn off the slow cooker.
3. Allow liquid to cool for about 5–10 minutes, then stir in:
– yogurt
– half-and-half

Serve hot over cooked rice or cauliflower rice with naan bread, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds.

This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe provides an easy way to bring restaurant-quality flavor into your home kitchen! Enjoy!

How to Serve Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Indian Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Over Rice

• Basmati Rice: The classic choice, its fluffy texture complements the rich sauce perfectly.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs the flavors beautifully while adding a healthy twist.

With Bread

• Naan: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
• Roti or Chapati: Whole wheat options that provide a hearty bite alongside your butter chicken.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color to each serving.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the dish and balances the richness of the sauce.

How to Perfect Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Creating the perfect Indian Butter Chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance flavor complexity and aroma.
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure you don’t rush cooking; slow cooking allows chicken to become tender and absorb flavors.
• Cool Before Adding Dairy: Let the mixture cool slightly before stirring in yogurt or half-and-half to prevent curdling.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices based on your taste preference for a personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Indian Butter Chicken can elevate your meal. Consider these options for a complete dining experience.

1. Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based side that cools down the spiciness of the curry.
2. Vegetable Samosas: Crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas, perfect for snacking.
3. Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach dish with paneer cheese, adding depth of flavor to your meal.
4. Chickpea Salad: A light salad with chickpeas, diced vegetables, and tangy dressing for added crunch.
5. Aloo Gobi: Spiced potatoes and cauliflower that complement the rich flavors of butter chicken nicely.
6. Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy chutney that contrasts beautifully with savory dishes, enhancing every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making an Indian Butter Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality spices can dull the flavor of your dish. Always opt for fresh, high-quality spices for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough. Aim for tender, juicy pieces by monitoring cooking times closely.
• Skipping the cooling step: Stirring in yogurt or cream while the sauce is too hot can cause curdling. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding these ingredients.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust your spices throughout the cooking process.
• Rushing the cooking process: Slow cooking allows flavors to develop beautifully. If you rush through, you’ll miss out on the depth of flavor that makes this dish special.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making an Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.

What is the best way to serve Indian Butter Chicken?

Serve your Indian Butter Chicken over hot cooked rice or cauliflower rice, and pair it with naan bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas and adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I customize my Indian Butter Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to adjust spice levels or add vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or lamb as alternatives to chicken.

How can I enhance the flavor of my butter chicken?

Consider marinating your chicken in yogurt and spices beforehand for deeper flavor penetration.

Final Thoughts

This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe offers a rich and comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its creamy sauce and tender meat, it’s highly customizable; you can easily tweak spices or add your favorite veggies. I encourage you to try making this dish at home—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Indian Butter Chicken

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe, a creamy and aromatic dish that brings the essence of traditional Indian cuisine right to your dinner table. Made with tender chicken simmered in a luscious sauce enriched with spices like curry powder and garam masala, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Serve it over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan for a complete meal your family will love. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it—allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium yellow onions
• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 3 medium carrots
• 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 3 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup half-and-half

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Layer sliced onions at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, bell pepper, carrots, tomato sauce, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, curry powder, garam masala, and salt; mix well.
3. Pour the chicken mixture over the onions in the slow cooker.
4. Dot pieces of butter on top.
5. Cover and cook on high for 4½ hours or low for 6½ hours.
6. Once cooked, stir in yogurt and half-and-half after allowing it to cool slightly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4½ hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg