This Butter Chicken Bowl brings all the rich, creamy flavor of classic Indian butter chicken—but served in a quick, fuss-free bowl format that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Tender chicken is simmered in a velvety tomato-butter sauce, then paired with fluffy rice, fresh veggies, and cooling yogurt or raita. It’s bold, comforting, and ready to impress.
Main Ingredient: Boneless Chicken (Marinated & Simmered in Creamy Sauce)
Chicken thighs or breasts are both excellent here—marinated in yogurt and spices to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness before simmering in the creamy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients Breakdown
Protein & Marinade
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Butter Chicken Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1½ teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup tomato purée (or canned crushed tomatoes)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or cashew cream for dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Base
- 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice
- Optional: cauliflower rice or naan for serving
Fresh Add-ons
- Cucumber slices
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Avocado (not traditional, but adds creaminess)
- Lemon wedges
Cooling Elements
- Yogurt or raita (yogurt + cucumber + cumin + salt)
- Fresh mint or cilantro leaves
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Skillet or saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons/cups
- Pot or rice cooker
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Marinate time: Optional 30 mins (or overnight)
- Cook time: 25–30 minutes
- Total time: ~50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Combine yogurt, lemon juice, and spices in a bowl.
- Add chicken and mix until coated.
- Marinate for 30 minutes (or skip if in a hurry—flavor will still be great).
2. Cook the Chicken
- In a skillet, heat a bit of oil and cook marinated chicken pieces until browned and mostly cooked through (6–8 minutes).
- Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Make the Butter Chicken Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter with a bit of oil.
- Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until golden and fragrant.
- Stir in coriander, paprika, chili powder.
- Add tomato purée and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in cream and sugar (if using).
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and simmer for 8–10 more minutes until fully cooked and coated in sauce.
4. Prepare the Rice and Toppings
- While sauce simmers, cook rice if not already done.
- Slice cucumber, onion, tomatoes, and prepare yogurt or raita.
5. Assemble the Bowl
- Add rice to the base of the bowl.
- Top with a generous scoop of butter chicken.
- Arrange fresh veggies on the side.
- Add a spoonful of yogurt or raita.
- Garnish with cilantro and lemon wedges.
What to Serve With It
- Warm naan or garlic flatbread
- Spiced roasted chickpeas for crunch
- Mango chutney or pickled onions on the side
- Sweet lassi or iced chai to cool the heat
Tips and Variations
- For a low-carb version, serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps
- Make it dairy-free with coconut milk or cashew cream instead of cream and butter
- Add spinach or peas to the sauce for extra nutrients
- Use paneer or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version
- Double the sauce—it’s great for dipping naan or freezing for later
Storage and Meal Prep
- Store sauce and rice separately for best results
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheats beautifully on the stovetop or in the microwave
- Freeze sauce in airtight containers for up to 1 month
Plating and Presentation Ideas
- Use wide bowls with rice mounded slightly off-center
- Spoon butter chicken generously over rice
- Arrange fresh veggies and yogurt on the side for contrast
- Garnish with a drizzle of cream, cilantro leaves, and a sprinkle of paprika for color
Final Thoughts
The Butter Chicken Bowl is a flavor-packed fusion of classic Indian comfort food and modern bowl-style dining. Creamy, rich, and balanced with fresh toppings, this dish is ideal for those who want indulgence without the fuss. It’s great for beginners and a hit with anyone who loves bold, aromatic spices.
