Butter chicken with spinach

Butter chicken with spinach is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich butter sauce with the nutritional boost of fresh spinach. This recipe combines rich flavours and textures, perfect for a family meal or special occasion.

27 Jan 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 8 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp vegetable oil
8 chicken thighs
1/2 cup butter
1.50 cups water
1/2 cup light sour cream
4 cups spinach

Butter chicken with spinach is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the rich, creamy goodness of butter chicken with the nutritional benefits of spinach. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs.
- Measure out the vegetable oil, butter, water, and light sour cream.
- Wash the spinach thoroughly and set it aside to drain.

2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and cook until they are browned on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the 1/2 cup of butter. Allow it to melt completely.
- Gradually add 1.5 cups of water to the skillet, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
- Mix in the 1/2 cup of light sour cream. Continue stirring until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them in the butter sauce.
- Simmer the chicken in the sauce over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

5. Add the Spinach:
- Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, add the 4 cups of spinach to the skillet.
- Stir the spinach into the sauce until it is wilted and evenly distributed. This will take about 2-3 minutes.

6. Final Touches:
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Let the dish simmer for a couple more minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

7. Serve:
- Serve the Butter Chicken with Spinach hot, either over rice, with naan bread, or simply on its own.
- Enjoy your delicious and creamy Butter Chicken with Spinach!

This butter chicken with spinach recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a favorite comfort food with an added boost of nutrition. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, complemented by the freshness of spinach.

Butter chicken with spinach FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the chicken thighs?

The chicken thighs should be cooked for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are browned. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I substitute regular sour cream for light sour cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular sour cream for light sour cream without significantly affecting the flavor or texture of the dish.

How should I store leftover butter chicken with spinach?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What pan size do I need for this recipe?

A large skillet or frying pan is recommended to allow enough space for browning the chicken and combining the sauce and spinach.

What can I serve with butter chicken to enhance the meal?

Butter chicken pairs well with steamed rice, naan bread, or it can be served on its own for a low-carb option.

Tips:

- Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach will give your dish a vibrant color and better texture. If you only have frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more salt, pepper, or even a dash of cayenne pepper if you like your butter chicken with a bit of a kick.

- Cook chicken thighs evenly: Make sure to cook the chicken thighs evenly by turning them occasionally. This ensures they are cooked thoroughly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

- Serve with rice or naan: Butter chicken with spinach pairs beautifully with basmati rice or warm naan bread. These sides can help soak up the delicious sauce, making for a more complete meal.

- Let it simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer after adding the sour cream and spinach. This helps blend the flavors better and makes the chicken more tender.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 690kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 3.35g
Fiber 0.48g
Sugar 0.35g
Fat 60g

Butter chicken with spinach