Dreamy Butter Chicken with Naan Recipe: Homemade Magic

Cooking up a delightful butter chicken with naan can transport you straight to the vibrant streets of northern India.

Spices swirl through creamy tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Tender chicken pieces marinate in a blend of yogurt and aromatic seasonings, promising an unforgettable dining experience.

Authentic techniques merge with home-kitchen simplicity, making this dish accessible to anyone passionate about exploring international cuisines.

Fragrant basmati rice and warm, pillowy naan complement the rich, velvety sauce perfectly.

Weeknight dinners or special celebrations become extraordinary when you serve this beloved indian classic.

Let’s embark on a culinary journey that will make your taste buds sing with joy.

Flavor Variations For Butter Chicken

• Vegan Butter Chicken: Replace chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit, using coconut milk instead of heavy cream and plant-based yogurt for marinade.
• Gluten-Free Naan: Substitute wheat flour with almond or chickpea flour, ensuring a similar soft texture and taste.
• Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice and replace naan with lettuce wraps or zucchini flatbread.
• Spicy Fusion Chicken: Add extra chili peppers, cayenne, or green chilies for a more intense heat level and regional spice variation.

Suggested Pairings For Butter Chicken

• Party Platter Perfection: Create a stunning spread with butter chicken, naan, and colorful side dishes like cucumber raita, mango chutney, and pickled onions for a vibrant dining experience.
• Comfort Combo Meal: Pair the rich butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice, extra naan bread, and a cooling yogurt sauce to balance the spicy flavors and create a complete, satisfying meal.
• Weekend Dinner Delight: Host a fun Indian-inspired dinner night with friends, serving butter chicken family-style in a large dish, surrounded by freshly made naan and a crisp green salad for a memorable gathering.
• Leftover Magic: Transform remaining butter chicken into delicious wraps, stuff into naan with extra sauce, or use as a topping for baked potatoes for an exciting next-day lunch option.

Storage Advice For Butter Chicken

• Store butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Butter chicken can be frozen for 2-3 months without losing flavor quality.
• Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Warm gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore sauce consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain chicken's tenderness.

FAQs

• What are the key spices used in butter chicken?

The key spices include garam masala, cumin, turmeric, coriander, and chili powder. These spices create the rich, complex flavor profile typical of Indian cuisine.

• Why is marinating the chicken important?

Marinating helps tenderize the meat and allows the yogurt and spices to deeply infuse flavor into the chicken, making it more juicy and flavorful before cooking.

• Can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce or eliminate the chili powder to lower the heat level. You can also use mild chili powder or adjust the spices to suit your personal heat tolerance.

Why Butter Chicken With Naan Is Irresistible

• Master Flavor Fusion: Dive into a world of rich, complex spices that transform ordinary chicken into a spectacular Indian-inspired feast bursting with aromatic layers.
• Quick Marination Magic: Minimal prep work lets you create an incredible meal by simply mixing spices and yogurt, allowing flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken while you relax.
• Beginner-Friendly Cooking: Step-by-step instructions make this recipe approachable for home cooks of all skill levels, guaranteeing delicious results even for first-time Indian cuisine explorers.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a delightful combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken that will impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients For Butter Chicken With Naan

• Chicken: Tender meat that serves as the primary protein in this flavorful dish.

• Yogurt: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a creamy tangy base.
• Lemon Juice: Provides acidity and helps break down the chicken proteins.
• Garlic, Ginger: Aromatic ingredients that add depth and warmth to the marinade.

• Garam Masala, Cumin, Turmeric, Coriander, Chili Powder: Classic Indian spice combination that creates the signature rich and complex flavor profile of butter chicken.

• Butter, Ghee: Adds richness and authentic Indian cooking flavor.
• Onions: Provides a sweet and savory foundation for the sauce.
• Tomato Puree: Creates the signature red color and tangy base of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and smooths out the spice intensity.

• Flour, Salt, Baking Powder, Sugar: Core dry ingredients for creating the bread.
• Yogurt, Oil, Water: Helps bind and create the soft naan texture.

• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a bright, fresh flavor and beautiful green color to the dish.

How To Make Butter Chicken And Naan

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, coriander, chili powder, garlic, and ginger in a large bowl.

Toss chicken pieces until completely coated.

Cover and let the flavors mingle in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight for maximum taste explosion.

Step 2: Sear the Marinated Chicken

Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the marinated chicken until beautifully browned on all sides.

Remove chicken and set aside, keeping those delicious juices intact.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Sauté chopped onions until they turn golden and caramelized.

Add minced garlic and ginger, releasing their aromatic magic.

• Cumin
• Garam masala
• Coriander
• Chili powder
• Turmeric

Let the spices dance and release their incredible fragrance for about a minute.

Step 4: Develop the Sauce

Pour in tomato puree, stirring thoroughly.

Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for 10-15 minutes, creating a rich, velvety texture.

Step 5: Finish the Butter Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it completely in the luscious sauce.

Pour in heavy cream or coconut milk and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until chicken is perfectly tender.

Adjust seasoning with salt and a touch of sugar if needed.

Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.

Step 6: Prepare Naan Dough

• Flour
• Salt
• Baking powder
• Sugar

Add yogurt and oil, mixing until the dough becomes crumbly.

Gradually introduce warm water to form a soft, pliable dough.

Step 7: Knead and Rest the Dough

Knead the dough for about 5 minutes.

Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes, allowing the gluten to relax.

Step 8: Shape and Cook Naan

Divide the dough into small balls.

Roll each ball into a flat circle.

Cook in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and puffy.

Brush with melted butter or ghee and sprinkle with minced garlic and cilantro if desired.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the butter chicken alongside warm naan.

Garnish with extra cilantro.

Serve with basmati rice for an ultimate flavor experience that will transport you to the streets of India!

Tips For Perfect Butter Chicken

• Let the chicken soak in the yogurt and spice mixture for at least 8 hours to ensure deep, rich flavor penetration and tender meat.
• Adjust chili powder quantity to match your heat tolerance, making the dish mild or fiery based on personal preference.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce without compromising texture.
• Ensure skillet is hot before cooking naan and avoid overcrowding to achieve those signature golden, slightly charred bubbles.
• Marinate chicken and prepare naan dough in advance, reducing day-of cooking stress and allowing flavors to develop more intensely.

Butter Chicken with Naan Recipe

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4.7 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy, aromatic butter chicken from Northern India delivers a symphony of spices that dance across tender marinated chicken. Garnished with fresh cilantro and served alongside warm naan, this classic dish promises a delightful culinary journey through rich, velvety flavors you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 lbs. 700g boneless chicken thighs

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt (to taste)

Sauce and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon ginger
• 1 15 oz can tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Fresh cilantro (chopped)

Naan Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons yogurt
• 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter
• 3/4 cup warm water
• Additional melted butter or ghee
• Fresh garlic an

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Instructions

1. Marinate chicken in a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and aromatic spices for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature, browning the marinated chicken pieces evenly until golden.
3. Remove chicken and set aside, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pan.
4. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
5. Sauté onions until they transform into a rich, caramel-like golden color.
6. Add minced garlic and ginger, releasing their intense fragrance for about 30 seconds.
7. Sprinkle in ground spices, toasting them briefly to enhance their aromatic qualities.
8. Pour tomato puree into the skillet, allowing the sauce to simmer and reduce for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
9. Reintroduce the browned chicken into the sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
10. Stream in heavy cream, continuing to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
11. Season the sauce with salt and a touch of sugar to balance the flavors.
12. For the naan, combine dry ingredients in a mixing bowl.
13. Incorporate yogurt and oil, creating a crumbly texture.
14. Gradually introduce warm water, kneading into a smooth, elastic dough.
15. Allow dough to rest, covered, for 30 minutes to develop flavor and texture.
16. Divide dough into individual portions and roll into thin, oval shapes.
17. Cook each naan in a scorching hot skillet, flipping to achieve golden-brown bubbled surface.
18. Brush freshly cooked naan with melted butter and optional garlic.
19. Plate butter chicken garnished with fresh cilantro, accompanied by warm naan and optional basmati rice.

Notes

• Marinate chicken overnight for deeper, more intense flavor absorption and tender meat texture.
• Use full-fat yogurt to ensure rich, creamy marinade that helps tenderize chicken and enhance overall taste.
• Adjust chili powder according to personal spice tolerance, reducing or increasing for milder or spicier result.
• Coconut milk works perfectly as dairy-free alternative to heavy cream for lactose-intolerant individuals or vegan adaptations.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 610 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 380 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 39 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg