Butter chicken is a beloved dish that combines rich flavors with creamy textures, making it a favorite for many. Our Disney Butter Chicken Recipe brings the magic of the parks right into our kitchen, capturing that iconic taste we all crave. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a comforting meal with a touch of Disney charm.
Ingredients
To recreate the magical taste of Disney Butter Chicken, we carefully selected ingredients that deliver authentic flavor and creamy richness. Below are the components divided into their essential parts to guide us seamlessly through the preparation.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 ½ teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (for vibrant color and mild heat)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Butter Chicken Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup water (adjust to desired sauce consistency)
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, crushed for authentic aroma)
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Chicken Marinade | Yogurt, garlic paste, ginger paste, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt |
| Butter Chicken Sauce | Butter, onions, ginger garlic paste, ground spices, tomato paste, tomato puree, heavy cream, sugar, cilantro |
| Additional Ingredients | Vegetable oil, water, kasuri methi |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Disney Butter Chicken Recipe with authentic flavors and perfect texture, having the right equipment is essential. Below is a detailed list of the tools that will help us cook efficiently and achieve the best results:
- Large Mixing Bowl
For combining and marinating the chicken with yogurt and spices evenly.
- Heavy-Bottomed Skillet or Dutch Oven
Ideal for sautéing onions, cooking the chicken, and simmering the sauce without burning.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
For stirring the sauce gently and scraping the pan to release all those flavorful bits.
- Fine Mesh Sieve or Strainer
Useful if we choose to blend the sauce smooth and remove any lumps for that signature creamy texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
To ensure precise measurement of spices, butter, cream, and other ingredients for consistent flavor.
- Knife and Cutting Board
For prepping onions, garlic, ginger, and chopping fresh cilantro.
- Blender or Handheld Immersion Blender (Optional)
For pureeing the tomato base to a silky smooth consistency, mimicking Disney’s rich sauce.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Marinating chicken |
| Heavy-Bottomed Skillet | Cooking chicken and sauce |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring and scraping |
| Fine Mesh Sieve | Straining sauce for smoothness |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Preparing vegetables and herbs |
| Blender/Immersion Blender (Optional) | Pureeing sauce for creamy texture |
Having these essentials ready before we start ensures a smooth cooking process and confidence in replicating that famous Disney Butter Chicken taste at home.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, thorough prep work sets the foundation for our Disney Butter Chicken Recipe. Let’s organize our steps to ensure every element is perfectly ready for a seamless cooking experience.
Preparing the Chicken
- Start by trimming excess fat from 2 pounds of boneless chicken thighs.
- Cut the chicken into approximately 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking and proper marinade absorption.
- Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better.
- Place the chicken cubes in a large mixing bowl immediately to keep the process efficient.
Making the Marinade
To capture the signature flavor, precise marinade preparation is key.
- In a separate bowl, combine the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plain yogurt | 1 cup | Use full-fat for richness |
| Ginger-garlic paste | 2 tbsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp | Freshly ground if possible |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | 1 tsp | For color and mild heat |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
- Whisk thoroughly to create a smooth and uniform marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to this marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse deeply.
Preparing the Sauce Ingredients
For authentic richness and creaminess in our Disney Butter Chicken, prepping sauce components carefully is crucial.
- Finely chop 1 medium onion until translucent for a smooth base.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic and grate 1-inch piece of fresh ginger.
- Measure out 4 tablespoons of butter to ensure the right balance of richness.
- Prepare 1 cup of heavy cream for creaminess.
- Chop fresh cilantro leaves roughly for garnish and finishing touch.
- Keep the 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes accessible to create the luscious sauce texture.
Having all these ingredients prepped and measured assures a smooth transition to cooking and helps us replicate that vibrant, creamy, and flavorful Disney-inspired butter chicken with precision.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to bring the authentic Disney Butter Chicken magic into your kitchen. We’ll guide you through marinating, cooking, and combining the flavors for a perfectly creamy and flavorful dish.
Marinating the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, add 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Combine 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp minced garlic, 2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp chili powder, and 1 tsp salt.
- Mix the marinade vigorously to ensure all spices blend evenly.
- Toss the chicken cubes in the marinade until fully coated.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add 2 tbsp vegetable oil and swirl to coat the base evenly.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off — do not wipe.
- Place chicken cubes in the hot pan without overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked yet.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
Preparing the Butter Chicken Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 3 tbsp butter.
- Once melted, add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft and golden.
- Stir in 1 tbsp minced garlic and 1 tbsp grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add 2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp turmeric, and a pinch of cinnamon. Stir well to toast spices for 30 seconds.
- Pour in 1 cup tomato puree and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until sauce thickens and darkens.
- Reduce heat to low; slowly stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 2 tbsp butter until sauce is silky smooth.
- Season with salt to taste.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
- Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet with the butter chicken sauce.
- Stir gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Simmer uncovered on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken the sauce and finish cooking the chicken.
- Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
| Step | Time | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Marinating the Chicken | 2 hours to overnight | Ensures tender flavorful chicken |
| Cooking the Chicken | 8-10 minutes total | Sear to golden not fully cooked |
| Butter Chicken Sauce | 15-18 minutes | Toast spices and simmer sauce |
| Combining Chicken & Sauce | 10-15 minutes | Simmer to meld flavors & thicken |
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy the Disney Butter Chicken Recipe, we recommend pairing it with complementary sides that enhance its rich, creamy flavors. Here are our top serving ideas to elevate your meal experience:
Classic Indian Breads
Serve the butter chicken alongside warm naan or paratha. The soft, buttery bread is perfect for scooping up the luscious sauce. We suggest:
- Garlic naan for a subtle hint of flavor
- Butter paratha for extra richness
Rice Pairings
The silky tomato-cream sauce of our Disney Butter Chicken shines best with fragrant, fluffy rice. Ideal options include:
| Rice Type | Cooking Notes | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | Rinse well, cook with water-to-rice ratio 1.5:1 | Garnish with toasted cumin seeds |
| Jeera Rice | Cook basmati with cumin seeds and ghee | Adds a toasted, nutty aroma |
| Saffron Rice | Infuse basmati with saffron and warm milk | Elegant color and subtle flavor |
Vegetable Sides
Balance the creamy chicken with fresh or lightly cooked vegetables such as:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for texture contrast
- Cucumber raita to cool the palate
- Mango chutney for a sweet and tangy complement
Garnishes To Complete the Dish
Add freshness and depth to the presentation with simple garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro sprinkled on top
- A drizzle of heavy cream for added silkiness
- Toasted fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for authentic aroma
“Serving the Disney Butter Chicken with the right accompaniments transforms this dish into a magical, well-rounded feast reminiscent of those delighting guests at Disney parks.”
Beverage Pairings
Complete your meal with these beverages that harmonize with the spices and creaminess:
- A chilled glass of mango lassi
- Light, crisp Indian lager beer
- Mild Chardonnay for wine lovers
By combining these elements thoughtfully, we create an indulgent meal that highlights the flavors of our Disney Butter Chicken Recipe and provides a memorable dining experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Disney Butter Chicken Recipe ahead of time not only saves us moments during mealtime but also enhances the depth of flavor, making the dish even more irresistible. Here are key make-ahead strategies to maximize convenience and taste:
Marinate the Chicken in Advance
- Marinate the boneless chicken thighs in the yogurt and spice mixture for at least 2 hours, ideally up to overnight.
- Refrigeration allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a tender and flavorful chicken.
- Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag to prevent any contamination or odor absorption.
Prepare the Sauce Components Early
- Chop onions, mince garlic and ginger, and measure spices up to 24 hours ahead.
- Store these prepped ingredients in separate containers covered with plastic wrap or airtight lids in the fridge.
- This step speeds up the cooking process and prevents last-minute stress.
Cook and Store the Butter Chicken Sauce
- We can fully cook the butter chicken sauce a day before serving.
- Once cooked, allow the sauce to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add the cooked chicken just before simmering to combine flavors fully.
Batch Cook and Freeze for Future Meals
- This recipe freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Cool the cooked butter chicken completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers.
- Label with date and reheat thoroughly on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of cream or butter to refresh the texture when reheating.
Table: Make-Ahead Storage Guidelines
| Step | Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated chicken | Airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 24 hours | Cook directly from refrigerated, no thawing needed |
| Chopped/prepped ingredients | Airtight containers, refrigerated | Up to 24 hours | Use as is when cooking |
| Butter chicken sauce (cooked) | Airtight container, refrigerated | Up to 2 days | Reheat gently on stove, stir to combine flavors |
| Fully cooked dish (frozen) | Freezer-safe containers | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge, reheat thoroughly |
Pro tip: When reheating frozen butter chicken, adding a tablespoon of fresh butter or cream restores the creamy texture and richness that make this dish so iconic.
By following these make-ahead tips, we streamline the cooking process while preserving the delicious taste and creamy texture of our beloved Disney Butter Chicken.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Disney Butter Chicken tasting fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps to preserve the rich creaminess and vibrant spices of the dish:
- Cool the butter chicken completely before storing. Allow it to reach room temperature but do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Transfer the butter chicken to an airtight container to maintain moisture and avoid absorbing other odors from the refrigerator.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | 40°F (4°C) or below | Store in sealed container, reheat thoroughly. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | 0°F (-18°C) or below | Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. |
- When freezing, we recommend portioning the butter chicken into meal-size containers. This makes thawing more convenient and helps maintain the moisture and texture of the dish.
- Label containers with the date of storage to keep track of freshness.
For best results when reheating:
- Thaw frozen butter chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of cream or butter if the sauce appears too thick to restore its luscious texture.
- Avoid microwaving on high power to prevent uneven heating.
By following these storage instructions, we ensure that our Disney Butter Chicken retains its signature creamy texture and rich flavor, ready to enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
Bringing the magic of Disney into our kitchens with this butter chicken recipe is both fun and rewarding. With the right ingredients, tools, and a bit of patience, we can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and creamy goodness. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe lets us enjoy a beloved Disney favorite anytime.
By following these steps and tips, we’re set to make a meal that’s comforting and impressive. Let’s dive in and savor every bite of this delicious Disney-inspired butter chicken together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Disney Butter Chicken different from regular butter chicken?
Disney Butter Chicken is known for its creamy texture and rich, well-balanced spices, replicating the iconic taste found in Disney parks. The recipe uses specific marination and cooking techniques to achieve that unique flavor and tenderness.
What are the key ingredients needed for Disney Butter Chicken?
Key ingredients include boneless chicken thighs, yogurt, butter, heavy cream, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices like garam masala and chili powder. Fresh cilantro is used for garnish to enhance flavor.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours in the yogurt-based spice mixture. Longer marination (up to overnight) results in more tender and flavorful chicken.
What equipment do I need to cook this recipe?
Essential tools are a large mixing bowl, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, knife, cutting board, and measuring cups and spoons. A blender and fine mesh sieve can help achieve a smooth sauce.
Can I prepare butter chicken sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prep and store the sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before combining with cooked chicken.
What are the best side dishes to serve with butter chicken?
Popular pairings include garlic naan, butter paratha, basmati or saffron rice, steamed vegetables like broccoli, and cucumber raita, which complement the rich flavors of the dish.
How do I store leftover butter chicken?
Cool the butter chicken completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Label containers with date for easy tracking.
What is the best way to reheat butter chicken?
Thaw frozen butter chicken overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on low heat or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture and prevent splitting.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but boneless chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness and tenderness. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter to replace heavy cream and butter, but this may alter the traditional flavor slightly.