This Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is a beloved dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right to your home. Known for its creamy, rich sauce and tender chicken, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. You can easily prepare it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, making it a convenient option for busy days. Serve it over rice or alongside naan for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices like curry powder and garam masala gives this dish an authentic Indian flavor that will wow your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over fluffy rice, cauliflower rice, or with warm naan bread. It’s great for any meal occasion!
- Slow Cooker Friendly: This recipe is designed to be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, making it simple and hassle-free.
- Meal Prep Champion: With leftovers that taste even better the next day, you can make this dish ahead of time and have meals ready to go!
Tools and Preparation
To whip up this delicious Indian Butter Chicken Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing the flavors while keeping the chicken tender.
- Instant Pot: Provides a quick cooking option without compromising on taste, perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
This favorite takeout dish of mine is incredibly easy to make right at home in my slow cooker! I serve it over rice with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and Naan for a delicious dinner every time.
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 6-quart or 8-quart slow cooker, place and layer the sliced onions.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the boneless chicken, bell pepper, carrots, tomato sauce, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, curry powder, garam masala, and salt. 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 and cook on high for 4 ½ hours or on low for 6 ½ hours.
Step 6: Finish Up
After cooking time is up, remove the lid and stir all ingredients until well combined. Turn off the slow cooker.
Step 7: Add Dairy
When the liquid stops simmering and steaming (after about 5–10 minutes), stir in the yogurt and half-and-half. (NOTE: If you stir in the yogurt and half-and-half before letting the mixture cool down a little, it could curdle.)
Step 8: Serve
Serve over hot cooked rice or cauliflower rice with naan bread. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds.
Enjoy your homemade Indian Butter Chicken!
How to Serve Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Serving Indian Butter Chicken is an enjoyable experience that can elevate your dining table. This dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and create a delightful meal.
Over Rice
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice complements the creamy sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice provides a nutritious base for the rich chicken.
- Lemon Rice: For an extra zing, serve it over lemon-infused rice to add freshness.
With Naan
- Classic Naan: Soft, pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up the buttery chicken and sauce.
- Garlic Naan: Infused with garlic, this version adds a fragrant twist to your meal.
- Whole Wheat Naan: For a healthier option, whole wheat naan offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Topped with Fresh Ingredients
- Cilantro Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens the dish and adds a burst of color.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: These seeds add crunch and additional flavor to your serving.
How to Perfect Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
To truly master the art of making an Indian Butter Chicken Recipe, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices provide a richer taste compared to pre-packaged options.
- Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight helps infuse flavors deeply.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the cooking temperature based on your slow cooker or Instant Pot settings for best results.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly before adding yogurt prevents curdling and maintains smoothness.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Indian Butter Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent suggestions that complement this dish beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli: Provides a healthy crunch that balances the richness of butter chicken.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness.
- Raita: This yogurt-based side helps cool down any spice heat while adding creaminess.
- Chickpea Salad: Protein-packed chickpeas tossed with herbs make a filling side that pairs well with butter chicken.
- Pickled Onions: Tangy pickled onions add acidity, cutting through the richness of the sauce effectively.
- Samosas: These savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes or vegetables make for an exciting appetizer before the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Indian Butter Chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin this flavorful dish. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Bold Ingredients Selection: Using low-quality or overly processed ingredients can affect the flavor. Opt for fresh vegetables and quality spices for the best results.
- Bold Skipping Marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate properly can lead to blandness. Make sure to mix the spices well and let the chicken absorb those flavors before cooking.
- Bold Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking for too long or too short can impact texture. Follow the recommended cook times for your cooking method to ensure tender chicken.
- Bold Adding Dairy Too Soon: Stirring in yogurt or cream while the mixture is still hot can cause curdling. Always allow it to cool slightly before adding dairy products.
- Bold Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker beyond its capacity can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam circulation by not overloading it.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Indian Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag; it will last up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot; usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently until heated through; this should take about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Indian Butter Chicken Recipe:
What is Indian Butter Chicken?
Indian Butter Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish made with marinated chicken simmered in a spiced tomato sauce, often served with rice or naan.
How do I make Indian Butter Chicken Recipe spicy?
To add more spice, increase the amount of curry powder or garam masala. You can also add chopped fresh chilies or red pepper flakes during cooking.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, lamb, or even beef depending on your preference.
What should I serve with Indian Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice (white or cauliflower), naan bread, and a side of fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How long does it take to cook Indian Butter Chicken in a slow cooker?
In a slow cooker, Indian Butter Chicken typically takes about 4.5 hours on high or 6.5 hours on low.
Final Thoughts
The Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is not only rich in flavor but also easy to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you want it spicier or prefer different proteins, this dish is versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful homemade meal!
Indian Butter Chicken
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Indian cuisine with this delightful Indian Butter Chicken Recipe. This creamy, rich dish features tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its easy preparation in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside warm naan for a complete dining experience that everyone will savor.
- Total Time: 10 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow onions
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 3 medium carrots
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 tablespoons curry powder
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup half-and-half
Instructions
- Layer sliced onions in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix cubed chicken, bell pepper, diced carrots, tomato sauce, tomato paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, ginger, curry powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the onions in the slow cooker and dot with butter.
- Cover and cook on high for 4.5 hours or low for 6.5 hours.
- Once cooked, stir well and let cool slightly before mixing in yogurt and half-and-half.
- Serve hot over rice or cauliflower rice with naan.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4.5 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 396
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for several hours before cooking. Feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition. If you prefer more heat, adjust the amount of spices according to your taste.