Dutch Oven Butter Chicken Meatballs bring together the rich, velvety flavors of classic butter chicken and the comfort of tender, homemade meatballs—all simmered low and slow in one pot. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves warm spices, creamy tomato sauce, and hearty meals that feel both indulgent and comforting. Using a Dutch oven helps develop deep flavor and consistent heat, ensuring every meatball turns out juicy and every bite of sauce is perfectly infused with garam masala, ginger, garlic, and buttery goodness. Whether you're making this for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish delivers the kind of flavor that keeps people coming back for more.

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Servings: 4–6

Yield: About 20 meatballs

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)

Butter Chicken Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 to 1½ tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (or Kashmiri chili powder for deeper color)
  • 1 can (14–15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for richness)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1–2 tablespoons sugar or honey, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 2–3 tablespoons butter, to finish
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

  1. Combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cilantro in a medium bowl. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs dense.
  2. Form the mixture into 1 to 1½-inch meatballs.
  3. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Add meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. They do not need to cook through at this stage. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Butter Chicken Sauce

  1. Add butter and olive oil to the Dutch oven. Sauté diced onion for 6–8 minutes, or until soft and lightly golden.
  2. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Toast spices for 30–45 seconds to deepen flavor.
  4. Stir in tomato paste (if using) followed by crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to mellow the acidity.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in cream, sugar/honey, and salt. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer the Meatballs

  1. Return browned meatballs to the Dutch oven, gently nestling them into the sauce.
  2. Cover and simmer over low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce thickens.
  3. Finish by stirring in 2–3 tablespoons of butter for the classic silky butter chicken texture.
  4. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values

  • Calories: 420
  • Total Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 165mg
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Total Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 25g

(Nutrition values will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Pro-Tip

A high-quality Dutch oven can make all the difference in this recipe—helping your meatballs brown evenly, your sauce simmer smoothly, and your flavors develop with deep, restaurant-style richness. If you don’t already own one, or if your current pot is due for an upgrade, investing in a sturdy, well-built Dutch oven will instantly elevate dishes like these Butter Chicken Meatballs and countless other one-pot meals. Its superior heat retention and even cooking are what bring this recipe to life. Click the button below to explore top-rated Dutch ovens on Amazon and find one that fits your kitchen beautifully.

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Conclusion

Dutch Oven Butter Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful, comforting dish that brings restaurant-quality richness straight to your kitchen. The Dutch oven helps concentrate flavors beautifully while keeping the meatballs tender and juicy. Serve this dish with warm naan, basmati rice, or roasted vegetables to soak up every drop of creamy tomato sauce. Whether you're new to Dutch oven cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a cozy favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

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