Indian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and diverse range of dishes.
Whether you crave hearty curries, fragrant rice dishes, or comforting vegetarian meals, Indian dinners offer something for every palate.
With countless regional specialties and a treasure trove of spices, Indian recipes can transform your dinner table into a feast of taste and tradition.
In this article, we explore 21+ Indian dinner recipes that bring authentic flavors and easy-to-follow cooking to your home kitchen, perfect for family meals or special occasions.
21+ Delicious Indian Dinner Recipes to Spice Up Your Evening Meals
Exploring these 21+ Indian dinner recipes opens up a world of culinary delights filled with bold spices, wholesome ingredients, and timeless techniques.
From creamy paneer dishes to hearty meat curries and vibrant vegetarian options, these recipes are designed to satisfy and inspire.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, embracing Indian cooking can enrich your dinner routine with new flavors and memorable meals.
So, gather your spices, fire up the stove, and bring the magic of Indian cuisine to your next dinner.
Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is a classic Indian dish renowned for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender pieces of chicken. This recipe combines aromatic spices and a velvety sauce to create a comforting and flavorful meal that’s a favorite in Indian households and restaurants alike. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy authentic Indian flavors in a simple yet indulgent way.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs, boneless
- Butter
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomato puree
- Heavy cream
- Garam masala
- Chili powder
- Turmeric
- Cumin
- Salt and sugar
Instructions
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in butter until soft and fragrant.
- Add spices and tomato puree, cooking until oil separates from the sauce.
- Add chicken and simmer until fully cooked.
- Stir in cream and cook gently until sauce thickens.
- Serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
Butter chicken is a wonderful introduction to Indian cuisine for beginners and a beloved comfort food for those familiar with its rich taste. The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes every bite satisfying and memorable.
Chole (Chickpea Curry)
Chole is a hearty and spicy chickpea curry that’s a staple in North Indian cooking. Known for its bold spices and robust flavor, this dish is perfect for vegetarians and anyone wanting a nutritious and filling meal. The slow-cooked chickpeas soak up the rich tomato-onion gravy, making it a deeply flavorful dinner option.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas (soaked and boiled)
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomatoes
- Green chili
- Garam masala
- Coriander powder
- Cumin seeds
- Amchur (dry mango powder)
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Add tomatoes and green chili, cooking until soft.
- Stir in spices and chickpeas, simmering until flavors meld.
- Sprinkle amchur and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve with rice or bhature (fried bread).
Chole is a classic Indian comfort food that delivers warmth and spice in every spoonful. Its hearty texture and aromatic spices make it a go-to dinner for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Palak Paneer
Palak paneer is a beloved Indian vegetarian dish that combines creamy spinach puree with cubes of fresh paneer cheese. This recipe highlights the vibrant green color and delicate flavors of spinach enhanced with subtle spices, offering a nutritious and delicious meal that’s great with roti or rice.
Ingredients
- Fresh spinach
- Paneer cubes
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Green chili
- Cumin seeds
- Garam masala
- Cream or yogurt (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch spinach and puree until smooth.
- Sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili.
- Add the spinach puree and cook with spices.
- Stir in paneer cubes and cream, simmer gently.
- Serve hot with naan or steamed rice.
Palak paneer is a nutritious and flavorful dish that brings the goodness of greens into a creamy, comforting form. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Indian vegetarian cuisine with a delicious balance of spice and creaminess.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken tikka masala is a globally loved Indian dinner dish featuring tender chunks of marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. This recipe combines smoky grilled chicken pieces with a rich, aromatic curry that’s both comforting and full of flavor. It’s a fantastic option for those craving authentic Indian flavors that balance spice and creaminess.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken, marinated in yogurt and spices
- Butter or oil
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomato puree
- Heavy cream
- Garam masala
- Turmeric, chili powder, cumin
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in yogurt, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Grill or pan-sear until cooked.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in butter until golden.
- Add tomato puree and spices, cooking until oil separates.
- Stir in cream and add grilled chicken pieces to the sauce.
- Simmer gently and serve with basmati rice or naan.
Chicken tikka masala is a perfect dinner choice that combines tender chicken with a luscious, spiced sauce. Its rich texture and bold flavors make it a dish that delights the senses and satisfies hearty appetites.
Aloo Gobi
Aloo Gobi is a classic vegetarian Indian dish made with potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi) cooked with a blend of fragrant spices. This dry curry is simple yet full of flavor, showcasing how basic ingredients can be transformed into a delicious, comforting meal. It’s perfect for a wholesome dinner that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.
Ingredients
- Potatoes, diced
- Cauliflower florets
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomatoes
- Turmeric
- Coriander powder
- Cumin seeds
- Garam masala
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Add tomatoes and spices, cooking until soft.
- Stir in potatoes and cauliflower, mixing well with spices.
- Cover and cook until vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with chapati or rice.
Aloo Gobi is a comforting and flavorful vegetarian dinner that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Its aromatic spices and tender vegetables make it a staple in Indian households and a great introduction to Indian cooking.
Dal Tadka
Dal tadka is a traditional Indian lentil dish made with yellow lentils cooked to creamy perfection and tempered with a flavorful spice mixture called tadka. This dish is a protein-rich, comforting staple that’s easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
- Yellow lentils (toor dal or moong dal)
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomatoes
- Mustard seeds
- Cumin seeds
- Red chili powder
- Turmeric
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook lentils until soft and mushy.
- In a separate pan, heat oil and add mustard and cumin seeds until they crackle.
- Add onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until golden.
- Add tomatoes and spices, cooking until oil separates.
- Pour the tadka (tempering) over cooked lentils.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Dal tadka is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Its rich taste and creamy texture make it an essential part of Indian cuisine, perfect for a nourishing and satisfying meal.
Rogan Josh
Rogan Josh is a fragrant and flavorful Indian lamb curry that originates from Kashmir. Known for its rich, aromatic gravy made with yogurt, spices, and tender meat, this dish offers a perfect balance of warmth and depth. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a hearty, comforting dinner with authentic Indian spices.
Ingredients
- Lamb pieces
- Yogurt
- Onions
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Kashmiri red chili powder
- Garam masala
- Cloves, cinnamon, cardamom
- Tomato puree
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Marinate lamb in yogurt and spices.
- Sauté onions and whole spices until fragrant.
- Add lamb and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato puree and simmer until meat is tender.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with basmati rice or naan.
Rogan Josh is a rich, aromatic dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dinner experience. Its tender lamb and spiced sauce make it a perfect centerpiece for a festive or comforting meal.
Masoor Dal
Masoor dal is a simple yet delicious red lentil curry that is a staple in many Indian homes. It’s quick to cook, packed with protein, and flavored with aromatic spices that create a warming and wholesome dinner option. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or flatbreads.
Ingredients
- Red lentils (masoor dal)
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomatoes
- Mustard seeds
- Cumin seeds
- Turmeric
- Red chili powder
- Fresh coriander
Instructions
- Rinse lentils and cook until soft.
- In a pan, heat oil and add mustard and cumin seeds until they crackle.
- Add onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until golden.
- Stir in tomatoes and spices, cooking until soft.
- Pour this tempering over cooked lentils and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.
Masoor dal is a comforting and nutritious dinner that’s simple to make but rich in flavor. It’s an ideal everyday meal that satisfies and nourishes with every spoonful.
Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer butter masala is a rich and creamy vegetarian dish featuring soft paneer cubes simmered in a luscious tomato-based gravy with butter and cream. This dish is a favorite across India and is loved for its mildly spiced, buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with naan or rice.
Ingredients
- Paneer cubes
- Butter
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomato puree
- Cream
- Garam masala
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Chili powder
Instructions
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in butter until golden.
- Add tomato puree and spices, cooking until thickened.
- Stir in cream and kasuri methi.
- Add paneer cubes and simmer gently.
- Serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
Paneer butter masala is a delightful dinner option for vegetarians craving rich, creamy flavors. Its smooth texture and balanced spices make it a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Tandoori Chicken
Tandoori chicken is a vibrant and flavorful Indian dish where chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), resulting in tender, smoky meat with a slightly charred exterior. This recipe brings the bold, smoky taste of Indian street food right to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- Chicken pieces (with bone or boneless)
- Yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Garam masala
- Red chili powder
- Turmeric
- Salt
- Mustard oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for several hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven or grill and cook chicken until charred and cooked through.
- Serve with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and fresh cilantro.
Tandoori chicken makes dinner exciting with its smoky aroma and vibrant color. The tender, juicy chicken combined with the spices creates a meal that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Baingan Bharta
Baingan bharta is a traditional smoky roasted eggplant dish from India, mashed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. This vegetarian recipe is rich in flavor and texture, offering a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy accompaniment to roti or rice.
Ingredients
- Large eggplant
- Onion
- Tomatoes
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Green chili
- Cumin seeds
- Coriander powder
- Turmeric
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Roast the eggplant directly over a flame or in an oven until the skin chars and the flesh softens.
- Peel and mash the eggplant.
- Sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger, then add tomatoes and spices.
- Mix in the mashed eggplant and cook for a few more minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Baingan bharta is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings a rustic, smoky taste to your dinner table. Its unique texture and rich spices make it a beloved vegetarian option.
Fish Curry
Fish curry is a tangy, spicy Indian seafood dish prepared with fresh fish simmered in a fragrant and tangy sauce made from tamarind, tomatoes, and traditional spices. This dish captures the coastal flavors of India and is perfect for a light yet flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
- Fresh fish fillets
- Tamarind paste
- Tomatoes
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Mustard seeds
- Curry leaves
- Red chili powder
- Turmeric
- Coriander powder
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté mustard seeds and curry leaves in oil, then add onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Add tomatoes, tamarind paste, and spices, cooking until sauce thickens.
- Add fish fillets and simmer gently until cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice.
Fish curry offers a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors that make dinner both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy Indian coastal cuisine at home.
Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is a popular Indian appetizer turned dinner favorite, featuring cubes of paneer marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled or baked until smoky and charred. This dish is packed with flavor and makes for a delightful, protein-rich vegetarian meal that pairs well with mint chutney or naan.
Ingredients
- Paneer cubes
- Yogurt
- Red chili powder
- Garam masala
- Turmeric
- Lemon juice
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Bell peppers and onions (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate paneer cubes and vegetables in a mixture of yogurt, spices, lemon juice, and ginger-garlic paste.
- Thread onto skewers and grill or bake until edges are slightly charred.
- Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Paneer tikka brings a smoky, tangy flavor to dinner that’s both satisfying and fun to eat. Its vibrant colors and bold taste make it a great option for a festive meal or casual dinner party.
Vegetable Biryani
Vegetable biryani is a fragrant, spiced rice dish layered with mixed vegetables and cooked with whole spices and herbs. This one-pot Indian classic is a feast for the senses, offering aromatic rice, tender vegetables, and vibrant flavors that come together in a perfect harmony.
Ingredients
- Basmati rice
- Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes)
- Onions
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Whole spices (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, bay leaf)
- Yogurt
- Saffron or turmeric
- Fresh mint and cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger with spices.
- Add vegetables and cook until slightly tender.
- Layer partially cooked basmati rice over vegetables, sprinkle with saffron or turmeric, mint, and cilantro.
- Cover and cook on low heat (dum) until rice is fully cooked and flavors meld.
Vegetable biryani makes for a festive and satisfying dinner, combining the earthiness of vegetables with fragrant spices and perfectly cooked rice, ideal for celebrations or everyday meals.
Matar Paneer
Matar paneer is a classic North Indian curry featuring soft paneer cubes and green peas in a mildly spiced tomato gravy. This comforting dish is loved for its creamy texture and balanced flavors, making it a perfect choice for a hearty vegetarian dinner.
Ingredients
- Paneer cubes
- Green peas
- Tomatoes
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Garam masala
- Turmeric
- Red chili powder
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
- Add tomatoes and spices, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in green peas and paneer cubes, simmering gently.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with roti or rice.
Matar paneer offers a delicious and wholesome dinner option that’s both creamy and flavorful. It’s a great way to enjoy paneer and peas in a comforting curry perfect for any night of the week.
Chicken Curry
Chicken curry is a beloved Indian classic that features tender chicken pieces simmered in a richly spiced, flavorful gravy. This dish perfectly balances heat and aroma, making it a comforting and hearty dinner option that pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads.
Ingredients
- Chicken pieces
- Onions
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomatoes
- Turmeric
- Chili powder
- Garam masala
- Coriander powder
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
- Add tomatoes and spices, cooking until oil separates.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until tender, adding water as needed.
- Simmer until gravy thickens and flavors meld.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Chicken curry is a comforting meal that brings warmth and rich flavors to your dinner table. Its hearty texture and fragrant spices make it a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Vegetable Korma
Vegetable korma is a mildly spiced, creamy Indian curry made with a mix of vegetables simmered in a rich sauce of yogurt, nuts, and aromatic spices. This dish offers a luxurious, flavorful experience and is perfect for those seeking a milder yet indulgent dinner option.
Ingredients
- Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans, potatoes)
- Onion
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Cashew nuts or almonds
- Yogurt or cream
- Garam masala
- Turmeric
- Cardamom
- Cinnamon
Instructions
- Blend nuts with yogurt to create a smooth paste.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger, then add spices.
- Add vegetables and cook until tender.
- Stir in the nut-yogurt paste and simmer gently until sauce thickens.
- Serve with naan or steamed rice.
Vegetable korma is a rich and comforting dinner that delights with its creamy texture and delicate spice balance. It’s an elegant yet easy way to enjoy vegetables in a flavorful sauce.
Lamb Vindaloo
Lamb vindaloo is a spicy, tangy Indian curry known for its bold flavors and fiery heat. Originating from Goa, this dish combines marinated lamb with vinegar, garlic, and a robust spice blend to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- Lamb pieces
- Vinegar
- Garlic
- Onions
- Red chili powder
- Mustard seeds
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
- Tamarind paste
Instructions
- Marinate lamb in vinegar, garlic, and spices for several hours.
- Sauté onions and whole spices until fragrant.
- Add marinated lamb and cook until tender.
- Add tamarind paste and simmer to develop tangy flavors.
- Serve hot with rice or bread.
Lamb vindaloo is perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy meals that wake up the palate. Its rich, tangy sauce combined with tender lamb makes it a memorable dinner option for spice lovers.
Chole
Chole is a popular North Indian chickpea curry known for its robust, tangy, and spicy flavors. This hearty dish combines tender chickpeas simmered in a tomato-based gravy infused with a blend of aromatic spices, making it a satisfying and nutritious dinner option.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas (soaked and boiled)
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Ginger and garlic paste
- Garam masala
- Cumin seeds
- Coriander powder
- Amchur (dry mango powder)
- Red chili powder
Instructions
- Sauté cumin seeds, onions, and ginger-garlic paste until golden.
- Add tomatoes and spices, cooking until the oil separates.
- Stir in boiled chickpeas and simmer to allow flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle amchur powder and cook for a few more minutes.
- Serve hot with bhature, puri, or rice.
Chole is a wholesome and flavorful dish that offers a perfect blend of spices and tanginess. Its rich texture and vibrant taste make it a beloved staple for Indian dinners and festive occasions alike.
Palak Paneer
Palak paneer is a classic vegetarian Indian dish that combines soft cubes of paneer cheese with a creamy spinach gravy rich in garlic, ginger, and mild spices. This healthy yet indulgent curry is packed with nutrients and offers a smooth, comforting dinner option.
Ingredients
- Fresh spinach leaves
- Paneer cubes
- Onions
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Green chili
- Cumin seeds
- Garam masala
- Cream (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch spinach and puree it into a smooth paste.
- Sauté cumin seeds, onions, garlic, and ginger until golden.
- Add spinach puree, spices, and cook for several minutes.
- Stir in paneer cubes and simmer gently.
- Finish with a splash of cream and serve with naan or rice.
Palak paneer is a nutritious and flavorful dinner that combines the earthy taste of spinach with the creamy richness of paneer. It’s a comforting dish perfect for anyone seeking a balance of health and indulgence.
Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a globally adored Indian dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy, buttery tomato sauce. This dish perfectly balances mild spices with rich textures, making it an irresistible and luxurious dinner choice.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken pieces
- Butter
- Onions
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Tomato puree
- Cream
- Garam masala
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Red chili powder
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in yogurt and spices, then cook until tender.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in butter until golden.
- Add tomato puree and spices, cooking until thickened.
- Stir in cream, kasuri methi, and cooked chicken, simmering gently.
- Serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
Butter chicken is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich, velvety sauce paired with succulent chicken. Its creamy, mildly spiced flavor makes it a perfect dish for special dinners or anytime indulgence.
Conclusion
Indian dinners are more than just meals; they’re a celebration of culture, flavor, and togetherness. The 21+ recipes shared here provide a gateway to creating authentic and delicious Indian dishes that cater to varied tastes and preferences. With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, you can recreate these classic dishes and enjoy the warmth and comfort they bring. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy family dinner, these Indian recipes will add depth and excitement to your culinary adventures.
