Craving a creamy, rich, and flavorful Indian dish? This butter chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based butter sauce. With a perfect balance of spices, creaminess, and warmth, this dish is easy to make and will satisfy your cravings for authentic Indian flavors.
This restaurant-style butter chicken is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. Serve it with naan, basmati rice, or roti for a complete meal.
Why Make This Recipe?
- Rich & Creamy – A velvety tomato and butter sauce that’s irresistible.
- Authentic Flavors – Inspired by classic Indian cooking.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, yet tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.
- Perfect Pairing – Goes well with rice, naan, or roti.
How to Make Butter Chicken
This easy butter chicken recipe delivers a silky, aromatic curry packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (or chicken breast), cut into cubes
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ cups tomato purée
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free option)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional, for balance)
- 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, optional)
- Salt to taste
Directions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and ginger-garlic paste. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Butter Chicken Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, ginger, coriander, cumin, garam masala, and red chili powder, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Simmer the Sauce
Add tomato purée and tomato paste, stir, and let simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in heavy cream, honey (if using), and kasuri methi. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Add Chicken and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the sauce, stir well, and let everything cook together for 5 more minutes. Serve hot with naan or rice.
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How to Serve Butter Chicken
Pair your butter chicken with:
- Fluffy basmati rice for a classic combo.
- Garlic naan or roti to scoop up the creamy sauce.
- A side of cucumber raita for a refreshing balance.
How to Store Butter Chicken
- In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container.
- To Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.
Tips to Make the Best Butter Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken – The longer, the better for maximum flavor.
- Use Fresh Spices – Enhances the aroma and taste of the curry.
- Don’t Skip the Butter – It gives the dish its signature richness.
- Simmer for Depth – Let the sauce cook slowly for the best taste.
Variations of Butter Chicken
- Spicy Butter Chicken – Add extra red chili powder or fresh green chilies.
- Dairy-Free Butter Chicken – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- Keto Butter Chicken – Skip the honey and serve with cauliflower rice.
- Slow Cooker Butter Chicken – Cook on low for 4-6 hours for extra tenderness.
FAQs
Q: Can I make butter chicken without cream?
A: Yes! Substitute with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Q: What’s the best cut of chicken for butter chicken?
A: Boneless chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, but chicken breast works too.
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of purée?
A: Yes! Just blend them for a smoother consistency.
Q: How do I thicken my butter chicken sauce?
A: Let it simmer longer, or add a little cashew paste or Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
This butter chicken recipe is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make at home. Whether served with naan, rice, or roti, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.
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Looking for more Indian recipes? Check out Boom Recipes for more delicious ideas.