Butter Chicken is a beloved Indian classic that delights with its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender, succulent chicken pieces. This recipe combines fragrant spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric with a luscious blend of butter and cream to create a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread, Butter Chicken is a crowd-pleasing favorite that brings bold, authentic flavors right to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken
Rich and creamy sauce: A velvety tomato and butter base that’s deeply flavorful.
Tender chicken: Marinated and cooked to juicy perfection, soaking up all the spices.
Authentic spices: A harmonious blend that delivers classic Indian warmth and aroma.
Easy to make: Step-by-step guidance for a delicious homemade version.
Perfect with sides: Pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or your favorite veggies.
Family-friendly: Mild enough for kids but satisfying for spice lovers.
Make-ahead option: Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
Experience the ultimate comfort and flavor with this Butter Chicken recipe—a creamy, aromatic dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Butter Chicken
Tender chicken simmered in a velvety, spiced tomato and butter sauce for creamy perfection. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up flavors.
Plain yogurt: This helps tenderize the chicken while adding a tangy depth to the marinade.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish and balances the richness.
Ground cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Indian cuisine.
Ground coriander: It brings a citrusy note that complements the other spices beautifully.
Turmeric: Known for its vibrant color and health benefits, it adds a subtle warmth.
Garam masala: A blend of spices that gives Butter Chicken its signature flavor profile.
Paprika: This adds a mild sweetness and a lovely red hue to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Unsalted butter: The star of the show, it creates that rich, creamy sauce we all love.
Onion: Finely chopped, it forms the aromatic base of the dish.
Garlic and ginger: These two ingredients pack a punch, adding depth and warmth.
Tomato sauce: This forms the heart of the sauce, providing sweetness and acidity.
Heavy cream: The secret to that luxurious, creamy texture that makes Butter Chicken irresistible.
Fresh cilantro: A garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
Basmati rice or naan: Perfect accompaniments to soak up that delicious sauce.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk can be a fantastic substitute for heavy cream. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Butter Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is where the magic begins. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. This mixture not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with flavor. Toss in the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight if you can. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavors become. Trust me, this step is crucial for that authentic Butter Chicken taste!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next up, it’s time to sauté the aromatics. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about five minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor. Then, stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute or two. You want them fragrant but not burnt. This aromatic trio is what makes your Butter Chicken truly irresistible, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Now, let’s bring the marinated chicken into the mix. Add it to the skillet, making sure to brown it on all sides. This should take about five to seven minutes. The goal here is to lock in those flavors and create a beautiful golden crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to get that lovely sear. Once browned, you’re ready to move on to the next step, where the real saucy goodness begins!
Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and give it a good stir. This is where the dish starts to come together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. This simmering process allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce, making it tender and juicy. The longer it simmers, the richer the sauce becomes, so don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Finally, it’s time to add the heavy cream. This is what transforms your dish into a creamy masterpiece. Stir it in gently, allowing it to meld with the tomato sauce. Let it simmer for another five minutes, adjusting the seasoning if needed. The cream adds that luxurious texture we all crave in Butter Chicken. Once it’s all combined, you’re ready to serve this delightful dish!
Tips for Success
Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; it builds essential flavor.
Adjust the cream to your taste for a lighter or richer sauce.
Garnish with cilantro just before serving for freshness.
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For marinating the chicken. A mixing bowl works just as well.
Skillet or saucepan: A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal, but any large pan will do.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy, but you can eyeball it if you’re confident.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring; a spatula can also work.
Variations of Butter Chicken
Spicy Butter Chicken: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a fiery kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Coconut Butter Chicken: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still maintains creaminess.
Herb-Infused Butter Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken
Basmati Rice: Serve with fluffy basmati rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
Naan Bread: Warm naan is perfect for dipping and adds a delightful texture.
Fresh Salad: A light cucumber and tomato salad balances the richness.
Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled mango lassi or a crisp lager.
FAQs about Butter Chicken
What is Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. It’s known for its delightful blend of spices and luxurious texture, making it a favorite among many.
Can I make Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! Butter Chicken can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving. The flavors often deepen, making it even more delicious!
Is Butter Chicken spicy?
Butter Chicken is typically mild, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking. For a spicier version, add red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade. This way, you can customize it to suit your taste buds.
What can I serve with Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. The creamy sauce is perfect for soaking up with bread!
Can I make Butter Chicken dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. It still provides that creamy texture while adding a subtle coconut flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Butter Chicken is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken come together to form a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Each bite is a reminder of the love and care you put into your cooking. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this Butter Chicken recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the flavors transport you to a cozy Indian kitchen!
A rich and creamy Butter Chicken recipe that is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for best flavor.
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through.
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside basmati rice or naan.
Notes
For a spicier version, add 1-2 teaspoons of red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option while still maintaining a creamy texture.
