Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is just what you need! This beloved takeout favorite is not only bursting with flavor but is also incredibly simple to whip up right in your slow cooker. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe will be your go-to for easy and delicious meals. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell heavenly!

Imagine serving this creamy, spiced chicken over fluffy rice or alongside warm naan bread, garnished with fresh cilantro. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, ready to dig in and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the magic.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The mild spices and creamy texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices creates an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or with naan for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will get your kitchen ready for this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Indian Butter Chicken:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use boneless skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some peas or spinach towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like more heat, add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch!
• Creamy alternatives: For a dairy-free version, replace Greek yogurt and half-and-half with coconut cream.

How to Make Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by layering sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps create a sweet base that enhances the flavor of the entire dish as they cook down.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together cubed chicken breast, diced bell pepper, carrots, tomato sauce, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, curry powder, garam masala, and salt. Toss until everything is well combined. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Add to Slow Cooker

Carefully pour the mixed ingredients over the onions in the slow cooker. Dot with chilled butter pieces on top. The butter adds richness to the sauce as it melts during cooking.

Step 4: Cook It Up

Cover the slow cooker and set it on high for about 4½ hours or low for about 6½ hours. Cooking slowly allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Final Touches

When cooking time is up, remove the lid and stir everything together until well combined. Let it cool slightly (about 5–10 minutes) before stirring in yogurt and half-and-half to avoid curdling.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Spoon over hot cooked rice or cauliflower rice and serve with naan bread. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch!

Pro Tips for Making Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Making Indian Butter Chicken at home can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve a restaurant-quality dish!

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices bring out the best flavors in your dish. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them yourself for a more intense taste.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder curry, feel free to reduce the amount of curry powder or garam masala. Remember, you can always add more spice later!
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
• Experiment with Yogurt Alternatives: If you’re avoiding dairy, try using coconut yogurt or cashew cream as substitutes for the Greek yogurt to maintain creaminess without compromising flavor.
• Double Up on Ingredients: This recipe freezes well! Consider making a larger batch to enjoy later or share with friends and family.

How to Serve Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Presenting your homemade Indian Butter Chicken can transform your meal into an inviting feast. Here are some ideas to make serving easy and delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: This adds a burst of freshness and color that makes your dish visually appealing.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: These provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Squeeze of Lime: A drizzle of lime juice brightens up the dish, adding a zesty finish that balances the richness.

Side Dishes

• Basmati Rice: A classic pairing, fragrant basmati rice absorbs all those delicious sauces while providing a light base for your meal.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great alternative that soaks up flavors without weighing you down.
• Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up butter chicken, making every bite satisfying and enjoyable.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish made with diced cucumbers and spices that helps balance out the heat of the curry.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Indian Butter Chicken will not only taste amazing but also look inviting on the table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for a later date, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the butter chicken is cooled completely before freezing.
• Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delicious dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I make this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute the Greek yogurt and half-and-half with coconut cream or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a dairy-free version.

How spicy is this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe?

This recipe can be adjusted based on your spice preference! The curry powder and garam masala provide flavor without being overly spicy, but feel free to add chili powder for extra heat.

Can I use different cuts of chicken in this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breast works best, you can also use thighs or drumsticks. Just ensure they are cooked through.

How should I serve this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe?

Serve it hot over rice or cauliflower rice, alongside naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro or toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe as much as I do! It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead or treating yourself to a cozy evening at home, this recipe is bound to impress. Happy cooking!