Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe for a Classic Dish

Introduction

Indian cuisine is known for its rich, aromatic spices and complex flavors, and one of the most beloved dishes is Butter Chicken. Known as “Murgh Makhani” in Hindi, this creamy, flavorful chicken dish is a favorite both in Indian restaurants and home kitchens around the world. Traditionally made in a tandoor (clay oven) and served with naan or rice, butter chicken is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

But what if you don’t have a tandoor or want to simplify the process without compromising on flavor? Enter Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken—a quicker and equally delicious version that you can make right on your stovetop. The key to this dish is the perfect blend of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a luxurious, creamy tomato-based sauce that is both rich and comforting.

In this article, we will guide you through how to make Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken from scratch, with step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations to make this dish your own. Whether you’re a seasoned Indian cuisine fan or a newcomer to this vibrant cuisine, this easy stovetop method will have you enjoying the flavors of India in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of spices, butter, and cream creates a deliciously rich sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken, making every bite a savory delight.
• Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional butter chicken recipes that may require marinating the chicken for hours or using a tandoor, this stovetop version cuts down on time while still delivering authentic flavor.
• Versatile: You can adjust the spice level, swap in different proteins (such as paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version), and customize the sauce to suit your tastes.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy sauce and juicy chicken make for a dish that is indulgent yet comforting, perfect for any day of the week.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes a great meal prep option, as the butter chicken stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes (15 minutes for prep, 30 minutes for cooking)
• Servings: This recipe serves 4, but it can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 550, Protein: 40g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 38g.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces): Chicken thighs are preferred in butter chicken because they are juicy and tender, but chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer.
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: A staple in Indian cooking, this paste adds a rich depth of flavor to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Adds color and earthy warmth to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides a nutty, savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor that balances the spices.
• 1 teaspoon garam masala: A spice blend that typically includes cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg—perfect for adding complexity.
• 1 tablespoon plain yogurt: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds tang.
• Salt to taste: For seasoning the chicken.

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The key to creating the rich, silky sauce that defines butter chicken.
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: Fresh ginger and garlic bring bold flavor to the sauce.
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes: The base of the sauce, providing both sweetness and acidity.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: For depth and warmth in the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garam masala: For that essential Indian spice flavor.
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional): For those who like a bit of heat.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For richness and creaminess that transforms the sauce into a luxurious base for the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt to taste: For seasoning the sauce.

Garnishes (optional):

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Crushed cashews or slivered almonds: For a bit of crunch and richness.
• Extra butter: A small pat of butter to finish the sauce for extra richness, if desired.

First Step: MARINATE THE CHICKEN

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, yogurt, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors (you can also marinate it for longer, up to overnight in the fridge, for deeper flavor).
2. Set Aside: While the chicken marinates, you can prepare the other ingredients for the sauce.

Second Step: COOK THE CHICKEN

1. Heat the Pan: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Since the chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, it should be tender and flavorful.
2. Remove the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Keep the skillet on the stove for the next step—don’t worry about any brown bits left in the pan; they’ll add flavor to the sauce.

Third Step: MAKE THE BUTTER CHICKEN SAUCE

1. Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add the Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add the ginger-garlic paste to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step is key to building the flavor base for your sauce.
3. Spice It Up: Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, garam masala, and chili powder (if using). Cook for another minute to toast the spices and release their essential oils.
4. Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add the Cream and Honey: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and honey. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thick, creamy, and well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.

Fourth Step: COMBINE THE CHICKEN AND SAUCE

1. Return the Chicken to the Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat the chicken in the creamy, spiced sauce. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Finishing Touches: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add an extra pat of butter at this point. This will make the sauce even more indulgent and silky. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro, and if you like, sprinkle with crushed cashews or slivered almonds for extra texture.

How to Serve Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some great ways to serve it:

1. With Warm Naan or Roti

Traditionally, butter chicken is served with naan or roti, which are perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce. You can serve store-bought naan or make your own for an even more authentic experience.

2. Over Steamed Rice

A bed of fluffy basmati rice is the ideal companion for butter chicken. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, creating a satisfying and complete meal. You can also make a simple pulao (flavored rice with spices) for a fragrant side.

3. With a Simple Salad

To balance out the richness of the butter chicken, serve it with a light cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. A fresh green salad with a tangy yogurt dressing would also work well.

4. For Meal Prep or Leftovers

Butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Recipe Variations

While this Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe:

1. Make It Vegetarian

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu. Both options soak up the rich

butter chicken sauce wonderfully and make for a satisfying plant-based meal.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. Conversely, if you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the chili powder or add some freshly chopped green chilies to the sauce.

3. Add Vegetables

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the butter chicken for added nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté the veggies along with the onions before adding the tomatoes to the sauce.

4. Use Different Proteins

Feel free to use chicken breast, lamb, or even shrimp in place of chicken thighs for a different take on butter chicken. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein to ensure it cooks through.

Tips for Perfect Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

1. Use Full-Fat Ingredients: For the best, most flavorful butter chicken, use full-fat cream and butter. These ingredients are what give the sauce its signature richness and creaminess.
2. Don’t Skip the Marinating Step: Marinating the chicken helps infuse it with flavor and tenderness. Even a short marination of 20 minutes will make a difference.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for enough time to let the flavors meld. If you’re in a hurry, don’t rush this step—it’s crucial to developing the depth of flavor.
4. Adjust the Sweetness: Honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the acidity of the tomatoes. You can add more or less depending on your preference for sweetness in the dish.

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Conclusion

Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that brings the authentic taste of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. With tender chicken, a silky, spiced sauce, and the perfect balance of creaminess and heat, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. This stovetop version is quick, easy, and can be customized to suit your tastes, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether served with naan, rice, or a simple salad, butter chicken will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Try it today, and enjoy the incredible flavors of India in the comfort of your own home.