If you’re craving a restaurant-style dish that is rich, creamy, and packed with flavors, then Indian butter chicken is the recipe you need in your life. Known worldwide for its velvety tomato-based gravy and tender chicken pieces, butter chicken has become a global favorite. Whether you’re exploring easy Indian recipes in your Dutch kitchen or trying to bring the authentic taste of India to your dinner table, this dish is a must-try.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the history, ingredients, and a step-by-step process of making authentic Indian butter chicken at home. By the end, you’ll be ready to impress your family or friends with one of the most iconic Indian chicken curry recipes.
The Story Behind Butter Chicken
Before we get into cooking, let’s understand why butter chicken (or Murgh Makhani in Hindi) is such a beloved dish. Butter chicken originated in Delhi in the 1950s at a restaurant called Moti Mahal. The chefs accidentally created the recipe by cooking leftover tandoori chicken in a rich tomato-butter sauce. The result? A creamy chicken curry that quickly became one of the most loved Indian spices-infused dishes worldwide.
Today, you’ll find variations of butter chicken across continents, but nothing beats making it at home with authentic flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Authentic Indian Butter Chicken
The secret to a perfect butter chicken lies in fresh ingredients and a balance of spices. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken Marinade
- 500g boneless chicken (preferably thighs, for juiciness)
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Creamy Curry
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 3-4 tomatoes, pureed (or canned tomato puree)
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies (optional, for spice)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ cup fresh cream
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
These ingredients are easily available in most supermarkets across the Netherlands, making it simple to recreate this Dutch kitchen Indian food classic.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Indian Butter Chicken at Home
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices into a bowl. Add the chicken pieces, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results). This ensures tender, flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken until lightly charred. You don’t need to fully cook it at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the curry.
Step 3: Prepare the Curry Base
- Heat butter and oil in a deep pan.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
- Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Add coriander powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for a few minutes to let the Indian spices release their aroma.
Step 5: Add the Chicken and Cream
Now, add your grilled chicken pieces to the curry. Mix well, pour in cream, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is rich and creamy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a knob of butter and fresh coriander. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Why You’ll Love This Indian Chicken Curry
- Authentic Taste: This recipe captures the same rich, smoky, and buttery flavors you’d find in India.
- Simple to Cook: Even beginners can make this easy Indian recipe at home.
- Perfect for Dutch Kitchens: With ingredients available in most Dutch supermarkets, you can enjoy authentic Indian food without much hassle.
- Versatile Pairing: Butter chicken pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even Dutch bread rolls.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken
- Marination is key – don’t skip it! It’s what makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breast for juicier results.
- Balance the cream and spices – butter chicken should be rich but not overly heavy.
- Smoky flavor – for an authentic restaurant-style touch, add a piece of hot charcoal to the curry in a small bowl, cover with a lid for a few minutes, and infuse with smoke.
Final Thoughts
Making Indian butter chicken at home is easier than you think. With the right Indian spices, fresh ingredients, and a little patience, you can bring the flavors of India into your Dutch kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this creamy chicken curry is guaranteed to impress.
If you’re craving more authentic Indian dishes or want to explore a wide range of easy Indian recipes, visit us at Indian Junction.
👉 Try our menu today and bring the real taste of India to your plate.