Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Introduction

Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is a rich and creamy dish that perfectly captures the essence of Indian comfort food. With tender pieces of chicken simmered in a spiced tomato gravy, enriched with butter and cream, this dish is flavorful, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. The stovetop method makes it quick and easy to prepare, without needing any special equipment, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

I first made this dish for a family dinner, and it instantly became a favorite. The combination of spices—garam masala, cumin, coriander, and a touch of chili—creates a perfectly balanced sauce, and the richness from the butter and cream makes every bite melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that leaves you reaching for just one more bite, and before you know it, the whole plate is empty.

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can adjust the level of heat, add more cream for a richer sauce, or even incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to make it even heartier. Pair it with fluffy naan or basmati rice, and you have a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.

The best part? This stovetop version is quick and easy, making it ideal for any night you’re craving something delicious and comforting, without the fuss of complicated cooking techniques.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Special occasions
• Family gatherings
• Hosting friends
• Lovers of rich, flavorful dishes

Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Here’s why Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is a must-try:

• Creamy and Rich: The combination of butter and heavy cream creates a velvety smooth sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken.
• Balanced Spices: With the right balance of spices, this dish is flavorful without being overly spicy, making it accessible for all taste buds.
• Quick and Easy: While traditional butter chicken might require longer cooking times or special methods, this stovetop version is fast, requiring only about 30 minutes to make.
• Versatile: Serve it with naan, basmati rice, or even a salad for a complete meal.
• Restaurant-Style at Home: This recipe brings the beloved flavors of restaurant-style butter chicken right into your kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are preferred in this recipe for their tenderness and ability to stay juicy during cooking, making the butter chicken richer in flavor.
• Yogurt Marinade: The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavor, making every bite flavorful and juicy.
• Spices: Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala are the backbone of this dish, giving it that authentic Indian flavor profile.
• Butter and Cream: These two ingredients give the sauce its rich, smooth texture that is the hallmark of butter chicken.
• Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide the base for the sauce, balancing out the richness with acidity and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well to create a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Cook the Chicken:

3. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the marinated chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

4. Sauté the Onions: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter and sauté the chopped onions for 4-5 minutes, or until softened and golden brown.
5. Add the Ginger-Garlic Paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
6. Add the Spices: Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder (if using). Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and become aromatic.
7. Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Add Cream and Simmer: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

Combine Chicken and Sauce:

9. Add the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat it in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
10. Season and Garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

How to Serve Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is best served with:

• Naan or Roti: Soft, pillowy naan or roti is perfect for dipping into the rich butter chicken sauce.
• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice serves as a great side to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with a dash of lemon and salt is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Raita: A cool, yogurt-based raita can help balance the spice and richness of the curry.

Additional Tips for Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Here are some tips for making your Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken even better:

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are convenient, bone-in chicken adds even more depth to the flavor of the sauce.
• Marinate Longer for Best Results: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination (up to 4 hours) will allow the flavors to really penetrate the chicken.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like your butter chicken spicier, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chopped green chilies to the sauce.
• Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic paste bring a more vibrant flavor to the dish compared to pre-made versions.
• Add Extra Cream for Richness: For an even richer sauce, add a little more heavy cream to the sauce towards the end of cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Butter: The butter is what gives this dish its signature richness. Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning.
• Make it Dairy-Free: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the butter with ghee or a plant-based butter substitute.

Recipe Variations for Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Here are 10 variations you can try for Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken:

• Paneer Butter Chicken: Swap the chicken with cubes of paneer for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Chicken Tikka Butter Chicken: Marinate the chicken pieces in a traditional chicken tikka marinade before cooking for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Butter Chicken: Increase the amount of chili powder and add some green chilies for extra heat.
• Keto Butter Chicken: Use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of rice or naan for a low-carb option.
• Coconut Butter Chicken: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk for a coconut-flavored twist on the classic.
• Butter Chicken with Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the sauce for a nutritious variation.
• Instant Pot Butter Chicken: Cook the chicken and sauce in an Instant Pot for a faster version of this recipe.
• Butter Chicken with Cashews: Add a handful of cashew nuts to the sauce for added richness and a nutty flavor.
• Butter Chicken with Mustard Seeds: Add 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds at the beginning of the cooking process for a subtle mustard flavor.
• Smoky Butter Chicken: Add a few drops of smoked paprika or use smoked butter for a smoky flavor in the sauce.

Freezing and Storage for Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

• Freezing: You can freeze Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Here are some special equipment you may need to make Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A heavy-bottomed pan is essential for cooking the chicken and creating a rich sauce.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping the chicken, onions, and herbs much easier.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board ensures safety and ease when preparing your ingredients.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements ensure the balance of spices is just right.

Frequently Asked Questions for Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

1. Can I make this dish without butter?
   You can use ghee (clarified butter) as a substitute for the butter. However, the richness will still be a key element of the dish.
2. Can I use boneless chicken breast instead of thighs?
   Yes, you can use boneless chicken breast, but chicken thighs are preferred for their moisture and tenderness.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute the butter with ghee or a plant-based butter and the cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
4. How spicy is this dish?
   This recipe is not overly spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer it spicier.
5. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
   Yes, you can make butter chicken in a slow cooker by following the same steps but cooking on low for 6-7 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded.

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Conclusion

Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is a mouthwatering, comforting dish that’s bursting with rich flavors and creamy goodness. The tender chicken, marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce, creates a perfect balance of savory and slightly tangy notes. The indulgent butter sauce adds a silky texture, making each bite a true delight.

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Pair it with warm naan, basmati rice, or your favorite side dishes, and you’ll have a complete meal that will surely satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying Indian cuisine for the first time, this stovetop butter chicken is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Bring the flavors of India into your home with this irresistible dish!

I’d love to see how your Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!