Butter Chicken is a classic Indian comfort dish made with tender marinated chicken simmered in a rich, buttery tomato-cream sauce. Mildly spiced, smooth, and indulgent, this dish is perfect with naan, roti, or steamed rice and loved by both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marination Time: 30 minutes (recommended)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1½ lbs (700 g) boneless chicken (thighs or breasts, cubed)
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Butter Chicken Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1½ cups tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt, to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh cream
- Chopped cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, spices, salt, and lemon juice. Add chicken pieces and coat well.
Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a pan over medium heat with a little oil.
Cook the marinated chicken until lightly charred and cooked through.
Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base
In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons butter and oil.
Add onions and sauté until soft and golden.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Tomatoes & Spices
Stir in tomato puree, chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt.
Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until oil separates.
5. Blend for Smoothness (Optional but Recommended)
Let sauce cool slightly, then blend until smooth.
Return to pan.
6. Finish the Butter Chicken
Add cooked chicken to the sauce.
Stir in cream, remaining butter, sugar (if using), and garam masala.
Simmer for 8–10 minutes on low heat.
7. Garnish & Serve
Finish with fresh cream and chopped cilantro.
Serve hot.
Additional Notes
- Blending the sauce creates the signature silky texture
- Butter should be added at the end for best flavor
- Adjust chili powder for mild or spicy taste
Dietary Info
- Gluten-free
- High-protein
- Contains dairy
Brief Introduction
Butter Chicken was created as a way to use leftover chicken by simmering it in a buttery tomato sauce. Today, it’s one of the most loved Indian dishes worldwide, known for its smooth texture and comforting flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide (Visual Tips)
- Sauce should be deep orange and glossy
- Butter should melt gently, not fry
- Chicken should be tender, not overcooked
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Chicken
- Thighs are juicier
- Breasts work but cook gently
Cream
- Heavy cream gives richness
- Can substitute cashew cream for dairy-free version
Tomato Puree
- Use fresh blended tomatoes or canned puree
- Avoid sour tomatoes
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Serve with naan, garlic naan, roti, or basmati rice
- Add kasuri methi (dried fenugreek) for authentic flavor
- Make it keto by skipping sugar and serving with cauliflower rice
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate up to 3 days
- Freeze up to 2 months
- Tastes even better the next day
FAQs
Is Butter Chicken spicy?
No, it’s mildly spiced and creamy.
Can I make it without cream?
Yes, use cashew paste or coconut cream.
Can I grill the chicken first?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky restaurant-style flavor.
Optional Personal Story
Butter Chicken is one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table. The aroma alone feels like comfort, and every bite is rich, smooth, and satisfying.
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