This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of India right into your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish offers a creamy and rich sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or naan. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, especially using a slow cooker or Instant Pot, ensuring you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners.
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of spices creates a rich, aromatic dish that will impress your family and friends.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or with naan bread for an adaptable meal option.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy your day!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools ready. Using the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving that perfect Indian Butter Chicken.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This tool allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing the flavors and tenderness of the chicken.
- Instant Pot: A great alternative for quicker preparation, providing pressure cooking options that save time without compromising taste.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for safely preparing vegetables and chicken, ensuring even chopping for uniform cooking.
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 Your Slow Cooker
In the bottom of a 6-quart or 8-quart slow cooker, place and layer the sliced onions.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl:
1. Combine boneless chicken, bell pepper, carrots, tomato sauce, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, curry powder, garam masala, and salt.
2. Toss until well combined.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Add the saucy chicken mixture to the slow cooker over top of the sliced onions.
Step 4: Add Butter
Dot the pieces of butter over the top of the marinated chicken mixture.
Step 5: Cook
Place the lid on the slow cooker:
– Cook on high for 4½ hours or on low for 6½ hours.
Step 6: Final Touches
After cooking:
1. Remove the lid and stir all ingredients until well combined.
2. Turn off the slow cooker.
3. When the liquid stops simmering (after about 5–10 minutes), stir in yogurt and half-and-half.
Step 7: Serve
Serve over hot cooked rice or cauliflower rice with naan bread. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds.
By following these instructions closely, you’ll create a mouthwatering Indian Butter Chicken Recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Serving Indian Butter Chicken can be a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors. Here are some creative ways to present this dish, ensuring your meal is both tasty and visually appealing.
Over Rice
- Serve the butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite satisfying.
With Naan Bread
- Pairing with warm naan is a must! Use it to scoop up the butter chicken and sauce, adding a lovely texture to your meal.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top your butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
With Lime Wedges
- A squeeze of lime over your butter chicken brightens the flavors. The acidity cuts through the creaminess, making each bite more refreshing.
Served in Bowls
- Present individual servings in bowls, garnished with toasted sesame seeds. This makes for an elegant dining experience, perfect for entertaining guests.
Accompanied by Yogurt Sauce
- A side of cooling yogurt sauce can complement the spice of the butter chicken. It provides a creamy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
To achieve the ultimate Indian Butter Chicken, consider these helpful tips. Each one will elevate your dish and ensure it’s full of flavor.
Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices have more potency than pre-ground ones. This enhances the aroma and taste of your dish significantly.
Let it marinate: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the spices for at least an hour (or overnight) deepens the flavors and makes for tender meat.
Adjust heat levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of curry powder or garam masala. Balance is key to achieving your desired taste.
Don’t rush cooking: Slow cooking allows all ingredients to mingle beautifully. Take your time for maximum flavor development.
Cool before adding dairy: Letting your mixture cool slightly before adding yogurt or half-and-half prevents curdling and keeps your sauce smooth.
Best Side Dishes for Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Complementing Indian Butter Chicken with side dishes can enhance your meal’s variety and balance. Here are some excellent options:
Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, basmati rice pairs perfectly with butter chicken, soaking up all its rich sauces.
Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt salad made from cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to spicy dishes like butter chicken.
Garlic Naan: Soft, pillowy naan brushed with garlic butter is ideal for scooping up every bit of sauce from your plate.
Aloo Gobi: This spiced potato and cauliflower dish adds texture and complements the flavors of butter chicken nicely.
Samosas: Crispy on the outside and filled with spiced potatoes or meat, samosas make a great starter or side option alongside butter chicken.
Mango Chutney: A sweet mango chutney provides a delightful contrast in flavors, enhancing each bite of savory butter chicken.
Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach mixed with paneer cheese offers a wholesome side that complements Indian Butter Chicken beautifully.
Chickpea Salad: A tangy salad made from chickpeas adds protein and fiber while balancing out the richness of butter chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned cooks can make errors when preparing an Indian Butter Chicken Recipe. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Onion Preparation: Failing to slice the onions properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always slice them thinly for a smoother texture.
- Skipping the Marination: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Take the time to mix your spices well and let the chicken soak in them.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking can make your chicken dry and tough. Monitor your cooking time closely, especially if you’re using a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
- Adding Dairy Too Soon: Stirring in yogurt or half-and-half while the mixture is too hot can cause curdling. Allow it to cool slightly before adding these ingredients.
- Not Adjusting Spices: Every palate is different. Always taste and adjust spices according to your preference, especially with curry powder and garam masala.
- Ignoring Storage Tips: Improper storage can spoil leftovers quickly. Be sure to store your Butter Chicken in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Make sure the dish has cooled down before sealing it.
Freezing Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Indian Butter Chicken Recipe?
An Indian Butter Chicken Recipe combines tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with butter and spices, creating a comforting dish loved by many.
How do I make my Indian Butter Chicken spicier?
To make your Indian Butter Chicken spicier, consider adding more curry powder or fresh chilies during cooking. Always taste as you go!
Can I substitute Greek yogurt in this recipe?
Yes, you can use sour cream or coconut milk as substitutes for Greek yogurt if desired, though it may slightly change the flavor profile.
Is this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe stores well and tastes even better after a day or two, making it ideal for meal prep.
What should I serve with Indian Butter Chicken?
Serve your Indian Butter Chicken over rice or cauliflower rice. Naan bread is also perfect for scooping up this delicious dish!
Final Thoughts
This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various spices or add vegetables according to your preference. Try making this delightful dish at home; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Indulge in the rich flavors of India with this easy-to-make Indian Butter Chicken Recipe. This comforting dish features tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices and creamy yogurt, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you opt for a slow cooker or Instant Pot, you can savor restaurant-quality butter chicken with minimal effort. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a delightful meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4½ hours (high) / 6½ hours (low)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker/Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Indian
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
Instructions
- Slice onions and layer them at the bottom of a slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine chicken, bell pepper, carrots, tomato sauce, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, spices, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the onions in the slow cooker and dot with butter.
- Cook on high for 4½ hours or low for 6½ hours.
- Stir in yogurt and half-and-half after cooking. Serve hot over rice or with naan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 392
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
