Butter chicken, known for its rich, creamy, and mildly spiced flavor, is a favorite among food lovers worldwide. In Dubai, a city known for its diverse culinary scene, finding the perfect butter chicken is an adventure in itself. Whether you're a resident or a traveler, you'll be spoilt for choice with the numerous restaurants offering this delectable dish. Here’s a guide to help you discover the best butter chicken in Dubai.
What Makes Butter Chicken So Special?
Before diving into where to find the best butter chicken in Dubai, let’s explore what makes this dish so beloved:
- Rich Creamy Gravy: The combination of tomato, butter, cream, and spices creates a perfect balance of sweetness and mild spiciness.
- Tender Chicken: Marinated in yogurt and spices, the chicken is cooked to perfection, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
- Universal Appeal: Its mild flavor makes it enjoyable for everyone, from spice lovers to those who prefer something less fiery.
Top Restaurants for the Best Butter Chicken in Dubai
1. Kashkan Restaurants
Kashkan Restaurant is a beloved institution in Dubai, offering traditional Pakistani and Indian cuisine. Their butter chicken is a crowd favorite, known for its generous portion size and authentic flavors.
- Location: Dubai Festival City
- Price Range: Affordable
- Why You’ll Love It: kashkan’s butter chicken is rich, hearty, and satisfying, perfect for a casual meal.
2. Moti Mahal Delux
Moti Mahal Delux is a name synonymous with butter chicken, as they claim to be the birthplace of this iconic dish. If you’re after a truly authentic experience, this is the place to be.
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Price Range: Mid-range
- Why You’ll Love It: The buttery richness and perfect blend of spices give their butter chicken a unique taste that stands out.
3. Gazebo
Gazebo is well-known for its Mughlai cuisine, and their butter chicken is no exception. The creamy, mildly spiced gravy pairs beautifully with their signature naan or biryani.
- Location: Multiple branches across Dubai
- Price Range: Mid-range
- Why You’ll Love It: A family-friendly restaurant that never compromises on taste or quality.
4. Patiala
For a fine dining experience, head to Patiala in Souk Al Bahar. They offer a modern take on classic Indian dishes, with their butter chicken being one of the highlights of the menu.
- Location: Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
- Price Range: High-end
- Why You’ll Love It: The luxurious setting combined with the rich and flavorful butter chicken makes for a memorable dining experience.
5. Bombay Brasserie
Bombay Brasserie offers a gourmet take on Indian cuisine, and their butter chicken is a perfect example of how traditional dishes can be elevated. The flavors are rich, and the presentation is exquisite.
- Location: Taj Dubai, Business Bay
- Price Range: High-end
- Why You’ll Love It: If you’re looking for a more sophisticated butter chicken experience, this is the place to go.
6. Amritsr Restaurant
Known for its North Indian cuisine, Amritsr serves up one of the best butter chickens in Dubai. The dish is cooked with authentic Indian spices and garnished with fresh coriander.
- Location: Al Karama
- Price Range: Affordable
- Why You’ll Love It: If you're craving homemade-style butter chicken, this restaurant delivers an authentic taste of India.
7. Desi Junction
Desi Junction is a hidden gem in Dubai that offers some of the best Indian comfort food in the city. Their butter chicken stands out for its perfectly balanced creaminess and spiciness.
- Location: Oud Metha
- Price Range: Affordable
- Why You’ll Love It: The casual vibe and rich flavors make this a must-visit for butter chicken lovers.
8. Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar
Celebrity chef Atul Kochhar’s Rang Mahal is a fine dining destination for Indian food in Dubai. Their butter chicken is a dish that reflects the chef’s creativity while keeping the classic flavors intact.
- Location: JW Marriott Marquis, Business Bay
- Price Range: High-end
- Why You’ll Love It: For a modern and innovative take on butter chicken, Rang Mahal offers an unforgettable experience.
How to Judge the Best Butter Chicken
While personal preferences may vary, here are a few factors to consider when looking for the best butter chicken:
- Flavor Balance: The perfect butter chicken should strike a balance between creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors without one overpowering the other.
- Tenderness of Chicken: The chicken should be marinated well and cooked to be tender and juicy.
- Gravy Consistency: The sauce should be smooth and rich, with a perfect blend of butter and cream.
- Authenticity: Authentic flavors stand out, so restaurants that stay true to traditional recipes are often the best.
- Accompaniments: A good butter chicken meal is incomplete without the perfect naan or rice to soak up the delicious gravy.
Tips for Enjoying Butter Chicken in Dubai
- Pair It with the Right Bread: Butter chicken is best enjoyed with naan or roti to scoop up the rich, creamy gravy.
- Try a Biryani Combo: Many restaurants offer butter chicken alongside biryani for an extra indulgent meal.
- Spice Level: If you prefer your butter chicken with more heat, ask the restaurant to make it spicier to suit your palate.
Conclusion
Dubai’s vibrant food scene offers countless opportunities to enjoy a mouth-watering plate of butter chicken. Whether you prefer a cozy, affordable restaurant or a luxurious dining experience, there’s a spot for you to indulge in this classic dish. From Kashkan's traditional flavors to Rang Mahal’s gourmet twist, the city has something to satisfy every butter chicken craving.
FAQs
Q1. What’s the average price for butter chicken in Dubai?
A: Prices range from AED 20 at casual eateries like Ravi to AED 100+ at fine dining spots like Rang Mahal.
Q2. Is butter chicken spicy?
A: Butter chicken is generally mild but can be made spicier on request.
Q3. Can I find vegetarian alternatives to butter chicken?
A: Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions, such as paneer butter masala.
Q4. Is butter chicken available for delivery in Dubai?
A: Most restaurants listed offer delivery through food apps like Zomato and Talabat.
