Protein Bowls

Indian Butter Chicken Bowl

Name: Indian Butter Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds (675g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 medium onions, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 inches (5cm) fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon garam masala spice blend; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 can (14 oz/410g) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste

By Clara Holloway · June 19, 2026 · Protein Bowls

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I had Indian Butter Chicken - it was love at first bite. The creamy tomato sauce, the tender chicken, and the blend of spices all came together to create a dish that was both familiar and exotic. As a home cook, I was determined to recreate this dish in my own kitchen, and after many trial and error attempts, I finally landed on a recipe that I'm excited to share with you.

This Indian Butter Chicken Bowl recipe is a protein-forward meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. It's made with tender and juicy chicken, a rich and creamy tomato sauce, and a blend of warming spices that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how accessible it is. You don't need to have a lot of experience with Indian cuisine to make it, and the ingredients are all relatively easy to find. Plus, it's a great way to get your daily dose of protein and veggies in one delicious bowl.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of chicken thighs, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices to create a dish that's both flavorful and nutritious. We'll also be making a creamy tomato sauce from scratch, using a combination of canned tomatoes, heavy cream, and a blend of spices.

So if you're looking for a new recipe to add to your rotation, I highly recommend giving this Indian Butter Chicken Bowl a try. It's a dish that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen, and it's perfect for anyone who loves Indian cuisine or just wants to try something new and exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
It's a great source of protein and veggies, making it a nutritious option for a weeknight dinner or meal prep
The creamy tomato sauce is rich and decadent, and pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken
The blend of spices adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish, making it perfect for anyone who loves Indian cuisine
It's a versatile recipe that can be made with a variety of ingredients and spices, so you can customize it to your taste
It's a great option for a crowd, and can be easily scaled up or down to feed a large or small group

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making a great Indian Butter Chicken Bowl is to cook the chicken and the sauce separately, and then combine them at the end. This allows the chicken to stay tender and juicy, while the sauce can simmer and reduce to create a rich and creamy texture.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a blend of spices. Indian cuisine is known for its complex and nuanced use of spices, and this recipe is no exception. We'll be using a combination of garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper to create a warm and aromatic spice blend that adds depth and flavor to the dish.

Finally, the use of heavy cream and butter in the sauce helps to create a rich and creamy texture that's perfect for coating the chicken and the rice. It's a decadent touch that adds a lot of flavor and satisfaction to the dish, and it's definitely worth the extra calories.

Overall, this Indian Butter Chicken Bowl recipe is a winner because it's easy to make, flavorful, and nutritious. It's a great option for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, and it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Indian Butter Chicken Bowl recipe, you'll need a few key ingredients, including chicken thighs, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices. You'll also need some canned tomatoes, heavy cream, and butter to make the creamy tomato sauce.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality chicken thighs that are fresh and have a good texture. You'll also want to select a good-quality garam masala spice blend, as this will add a lot of flavor to the dish.

1 1/2 pounds (675g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinlessChoose high-quality chicken thighs that are fresh and have a good texture. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer, but thighs are more traditional for this dish.
2 medium onions, dicedUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use shallots or scallions if you prefer.
3 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or granulated garlic if you prefer.
2 inches (5cm) fresh ginger, gratedUse fresh ginger for the best flavor. You can also use ground ginger if you prefer.
1 tablespoon garam masala spice blendChoose a high-quality garam masala spice blend that is fresh and has a good aroma. You can also make your own blend using individual spices if you prefer.
1 teaspoon ground cuminUse ground cumin for the best flavor. You can also use whole cumin seeds if you prefer.
1/2 teaspoon ground corianderUse ground coriander for the best flavor. You can also use whole coriander seeds if you prefer.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepperUse cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also use red pepper flakes or sriracha if you prefer.
1 can (14 oz/410g) diced tomatoesUse high-quality diced tomatoes that are fresh and have a good texture. You can also use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree if you prefer.
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy creamUse heavy cream for a rich and creamy sauce. You can also use half-and-half or whole milk if you prefer.
2 tablespoons unsalted butterUse unsalted butter for the best flavor. You can also use salted butter if you prefer, but be sure to omit any additional salt in the recipe.
Salt and pepper to tasteUse salt and pepper to taste to season the dish. You can also use other seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder, if you prefer.

Ingredients for Indian Butter Chicken Bowl

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometer Cutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Indian Butter Chicken Bowl

1
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3
Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
4
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest. Leave the skillet over medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
5
Add the garam masala spice blend, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
6
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
7
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
8
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9
Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice or with naan bread, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
10
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
11
Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh ginger and garam masala spice blend, for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice or with naan bread for a filling and satisfying meal.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for a fresh and flavorful touch.
Experiment with different spices and seasonings to make the dish your own.
Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for a quick and easy meal.
Use leftover chicken and sauce to make a delicious chicken sandwich or wrap.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh ginger and garam masala spice blend, which can affect the flavor of the dish.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, which can cause the flavors to not meld together.
Not using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Not seasoning the dish with salt and pepper to taste, which can make it bland and unflavorful.
Not garnishing with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, which can add a fresh and flavorful touch to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some heat to the dish by using more cayenne pepper or adding in some diced jalapenos.
Use different types of protein, such as chicken breast or shrimp, for a variation on the dish.
Add some extra veggies, such as bell peppers or carrots, to make the dish more nutritious and filling.
Use different types of milk or cream, such as coconut milk or almond milk, for a dairy-free version of the dish.
Add some extra spices or seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder, to make the dish more flavorful.
Serve the dish with different types of rice or bread, such as brown rice or whole wheat naan, for a healthier option.
Make the dish more substantial by adding in some cooked lentils or chickpeas.

What to Serve With Indian Butter Chicken Bowl

This Indian Butter Chicken Bowl is a filling and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice or with naan bread, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for a fresh and flavorful touch.

You can also serve the dish with some extra veggies, such as roasted broccoli or sautéed spinach, for a nutritious and well-rounded meal. And don't forget to add some raita or yogurt on the side to help cool down the spices.

Serve with basmati rice and naan breadAdd some roasted veggies, such as broccoli or carrots, for a nutritious and well-rounded mealMake a side of raita or yogurt to help cool down the spicesUse as a filling for sandwiches or wrapsServe with some papadum or crackers for a crunchy snackMake a batch of homemade naan bread to serve with the dish

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Indian Butter Chicken Bowl can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for a quick and easy meal. To refrigerate, let the dish cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

When reheating the dish, make sure to heat it until it's steaming hot and the sauce is bubbly. You can also add in some extra veggies or spices to make the dish more flavorful and nutritious.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it's easy to customize and make in large batches. Simply multiply the ingredients and cook the dish in a larger skillet or Dutch oven. You can also add in some extra spices or seasonings to make the dish more flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless and skinless chicken thighs are best for this recipe, as they are tender and juicy and have a lot of flavor. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer, but thighs are more traditional for this dish.

Can I use low-fat or non-dairy cream?

Yes, you can use low-fat or non-dairy cream in this recipe, but keep in mind that it may affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Low-fat cream can make the sauce more watery, while non-dairy cream can give it a slightly different flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

This dish has a medium level of heat, thanks to the cayenne pepper and other spices. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more cayenne pepper or use hotter peppers like habaneros or ghost peppers.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply cook the chicken and sauce, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

What type of rice is best for serving with this dish?

White or brown rice is best for serving with this dish, as it helps to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also use other types of rice, such as basmati or jasmine, for a more aromatic and flavorful side dish.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken for this recipe, but make sure it's cooked and shredded or diced before adding it to the sauce. You can also use leftover turkey or beef for a variation on the dish.

How do I store leftover chicken and sauce?

Let the chicken and sauce cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply cook the chicken and sauce on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then serve over rice or with naan bread.

The Full Recipe

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