Butter chicken is one of India’s most iconic dishes, known for its rich, creamy texture and mildly spiced tomato-based gravy. But have you ever tried Odisha style butter chicken? If not, you’re in for a delightful surprise. This regional twist on the popular dish brings in earthy flavors, traditional spices, and a lighter, more balanced taste that reflects the culinary roots of Odisha.
Unlike the heavy, cream-laden versions you often find in North Indian restaurants, Odisha style butter chicken uses simpler ingredients and techniques that make the dish both flavorful and soulful. It’s a dish that combines home-style comfort with a burst of regional authenticity. Whether you’re from Odisha or simply a food explorer, this variation is worth trying—and quite possibly, worth falling in love with.
What Makes Odisha Style Butter Chicken So Special?
What sets Odisha style butter chicken apart from its North Indian cousin is its subtle complexity. The spices used in Odisha cuisine are more earthy and aromatic, rather than overly spicy or creamy. The cooking often starts with mustard oil—a staple in many Odia kitchens—which adds a distinct sharpness and depth to the dish.
In place of heavy cream, Odisha style butter chicken may use curd or a touch of cashew paste for richness. The use of fresh local spices like panch phoron (a mix of five seeds: fenugreek, nigella, cumin, black mustard, and fennel) adds a layer of traditional flavor that is hard to resist.
Another signature of Odisha style butter chicken is the slow-cooked tomato-onion base, which is blended smooth and simmered with spices until the oil separates—ensuring a deep, caramelized flavor. This version also tends to lean slightly spicier and more rustic than its northern counterpart.
The beauty of Odisha style butter chicken lies in its balance. It’s not just about indulgence—it’s about tradition, balance, and a connection to local roots.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Odisha style butter chicken, you don’t need a fancy pantry—just some key spices and fresh ingredients. Here’s a list to get you started:
For the Chicken Marinade:
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500g chicken (preferably boneless or bone-in thighs)
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1/2 cup thick curd (yogurt)
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1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
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1/2 tsp turmeric powder
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1 tsp red chili powder
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Salt to taste
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1 tbsp mustard oil
For the Gravy:
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2 tbsp mustard oil or ghee
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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2 tomatoes, pureed
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1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
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1/2 tsp cumin seeds
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1/2 tsp garam masala
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1/2 tsp coriander powder
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1/2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (for color)
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1 tbsp cashew paste (optional, for creaminess)
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Salt to taste
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1 tbsp butter
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A handful of fresh coriander leaves for garnish
The inclusion of mustard oil is a defining element in Odisha style butter chicken, infusing the dish with its unmistakable aroma. Using fresh ingredients and roasting your spices can elevate the flavor tenfold.
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Odisha Style Butter Chicken
Ready to cook? Here’s how you can make Odisha style butter chicken at home in a few simple steps
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the chicken with curd, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, mustard oil, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour—or overnight in the refrigerator for best results. This step ensures the chicken soaks up the traditional flavors that define Odisha style butter chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of mustard oil in a pan. Add the marinated chicken and sear it until the pieces are golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove and set aside. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a nice charred edge.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in cumin seeds, then add chopped onions. Sauté until they are golden and caramelized. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Now add the tomato puree and cook it down until the oil begins to separate. This is crucial for an authentic Odisha style butter chicken base. Add in coriander powder, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for a few more minutes.
Step 4: Add Cashew Paste (Optional)
For a richer texture, add a tablespoon of cashew paste at this stage. This step replaces heavy cream while keeping the dish true to its Odia roots.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Gravy
Return the chicken to the pan. Mix well and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the chicken to become tender. Add butter just before turning off the heat for that final touch of luxury.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped coriander leaves on top. Serve hot with steamed rice, jeera rice, or soft rotis. You’ve just made a heartwarming batch of Odisha style butter chicken!
Tips for a Perfect Odisha Style Butter Chicken Every
Even the simplest dishes need a few tricks to make them shine. Here are some tips to ensure your Odisha style butter chicken turns out perfect:
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Use Mustard Oil Generously (But Not Excessively)
It’s a must for the authentic taste. Just remember to heat it until it smokes slightly to reduce its pungency. -
Don’t Rush the Tomato Base
Letting the tomato-onion masala cook down fully is key to a deep, flavorful curry. It’s what makes Odisha style butter chicken so soul-satisfying. -
Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor
If you can, marinate the chicken overnight. The yogurt and spices will penetrate deeper, giving your curry more depth. -
Balance the Heat
Odia food has a natural spiciness, but you can adjust it to your liking. Add more chili for heat or a bit of sugar if you like it mellow. -
Butter is the Finishing Touch
Don’t skip the butter at the end—it rounds out the flavors and gives the dish its name, even in the regional Odisha style butter chicken version.
Whether you’re from Odisha or just exploring its rich culinary heritage, trying out Odisha style butter chicken is a delicious journey worth taking. It’s a recipe that brings together tradition, flavor, and a unique twist on a classic favorite. So the next time you’re craving something hearty and comforting, skip the restaurant-style butter chicken and give this regional version a shot.
Let your kitchen be filled with the aroma of mustard oil, spices, and love—because that’s what Odisha style butter chicken is all about.