There’s something truly comforting about the delicious aromas that fill my kitchen as I prepare a hearty pot of homemade Butter Chicken. The warmth of spices dances in the air, reminiscent of family gatherings and joyous dinner parties. After discovering this gem of a recipe, I can confidently say that takeout has become a thing of the past. Why settle for less when you can indulge in tender, marinated chicken enveloped in a creamy, tomato-based gravy crafted right at home?
After a particularly hectic week, I craved a cozy dish that would bring both flavor and satisfaction to my dinner table. This Butter Chicken delivers on every front, striking the perfect balance between rich creaminess and aromatic spice. With minimal effort, you can recreate the comforting experience usually reserved for your favorite Indian restaurant. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary journey, where every bite promises to transport you straight to the heart of India!
Why is Butter Chicken a must-try?
Ultimate Comfort Food: Butter Chicken combines succulent marinated chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, making it the perfect comfort dish for any occasion.
Rich, Layered Flavors: This recipe layers aromatic spices and savory notes, creating an irresistible taste that excites the palate.
Easy to Make: You can whip up this gourmet dish with minimal cooking skills, proving that you don’t need to be a chef to impress your loved ones.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone, from kids to adults, loves the indulgent flavor of Butter Chicken, making it a fantastic weeknight meal or dinner party centerpiece.
Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers are just as delicious, and you can store them easily for another comforting meal later in the week.
So why wait? Dive into this unforgettable dish, and for more delectable Indian recipes, check out our vegetarian option.
Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Plain Whole-Milk Yogurt – Helps tenderize the chicken during marination; you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency.
- Garlic (2 cloves, grated or finely chopped) – Adds aromatic flavor to the marinade.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 Tbsp.) – Provides acidity to balance the dish.
- Garam Masala (1 Tbsp.) – A blend of spices that adds depth and warmth.
- Ginger (1 Tbsp., grated or finely chopped) – Contributes fresh, peppery notes.
- Kosher Salt (2 tsp.) – Enhances all flavors in the dish.
- Kashmiri Chili Powder (1 tsp.) or Substitution – Use 3/4 tsp. paprika plus 1/4 tsp. cayenne for heat and color.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (2 lb., cut into 1 1/2″ pieces) – Thighs are preferred for tenderness; this cut yields juicy and flavorful meat.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter (5 Tbsp.) – Adds richness to the sauce.
- Tomato Paste (1/2 cup) – Intensifies the tomato flavor; cook until darkened for maximum flavor.
- Serrano Chile (1/2, seeded and finely chopped) – Adds heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Ground Cumin (1 tsp.) – Complements the spices in the dish.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce.
- Dried Fenugreek Leaves (1 Tbsp., optional) – Adds a distinctive flavor; consider using kasoori methi if available for authenticity.
For Serving
- Fresh Cilantro (1/4 cup, finely chopped) – For garnish, adds freshness to the dish.
- Cooked Basmati Rice or Naan – Essential for serving; they soak up the flavorful sauce and complete the meal.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect Butter Chicken, so gather your items and prepare for a delightful cooking experience!
How to Make Butter Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, garam masala, ginger, salt, and Kashmiri chili powder. Add the chicken pieces, coat them well in the marinade, and refrigerate for 1 hour for maximum tenderness.
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Broil Chicken: Preheat your broiler. Spread the marinated chicken evenly on a baking sheet lined with foil and broil for about 15 minutes, or until charred and thoroughly cooked through.
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Prepare Makhani Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it darkens in color and deepens in flavor.
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Combine and Cook: Mix in the chopped serrano chile and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Then add ground cumin, heavy cream, fenugreek, and the pre-cooked chicken along with a splash of water. Stir everything together and allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and separates from the fat.
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Garnish & Serve: Taste your Butter Chicken and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warmly over basmati rice or with naan for a complete meal.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of fresh cream on top for a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse. Simply mix the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, spices, and chicken in a bowl, then cover and refrigerate. The sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge after cooking, ensuring it’s cooled completely first to maintain the creamy texture. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and broil the marinated chicken for 15 minutes for that fresh, charred flavor. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, making DIY takeout a reality!
Butter Chicken Variations
Looking to add a personal touch to your Butter Chicken? Here’s how you can customize this comforting dish with delightful twists!
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Vegetarian: Substitute chickpeas or tofu for the chicken to create a fulfilling vegetarian alternative. Both options soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully, making them irresistible.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a rich, dairy-free version. The subtle sweetness of coconut complements the spices perfectly, ensuring you won’t miss a thing.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of serrano chile or add jalapeños for an extra punch of heat. Adjusting the spice levels allows you to tailor the dish to your preferred palate.
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Flavor Infusion: Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky depth that enhances the overall flavor. This small addition transforms your Butter Chicken into a new culinary experience.
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Nutty Texture: Incorporate chopped almonds or cashews into the sauce for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. They give a lovely texture contrast that enriches every bite.
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Herbaceous Note: Add fresh mint or basil alongside cilantro for a refreshing twist. These herbs brighten up the dish, adding a lovely aroma and a hint of freshness.
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Citrus Zest: Mix in some lime or orange zest as you finish the sauce to introduce a zesty brightness that enhances the creaminess. This extra layer brings a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
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Sweet Touch: Stir in a spoonful of honey or maple syrup to balance the spices with a hint of sweetness. This creates a wonderfully complex flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying.
What to Serve with Butter Chicken?
Transform your Butter Chicken into an unforgettable meal with these delightful pairings that cater to every craving and palate.
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Basmati Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the rich, creamy sauce while providing a gentle backdrop to the bold flavors of the chicken.
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Warm Naan: Soft and chewy, naan is perfect for scooping up every bit of Butter Chicken, making each bite an experience in itself.
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Cucumber Raita: This cool and refreshing yogurt sauce balances the dish’s spice, offering a delightful contrast that enhances every mouthful.
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Garlic Naan: Infused with garlic, this variation lends an aromatic twist that elevates the dining experience, perfect for bread lovers.
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Saag Paneer: Creamy and spinach-rich, this popular dish complements Butter Chicken beautifully, adding both nutrition and flavor to your plate. A combination of textures and tastes ensures everyone sits down to a meal they’ll remember.
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Mango Chutney: A hint of sweetness from this tangy condiment brings harmony to the spices, adding depth and interest.
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Masala Chai: A fragrant cup of tea infused with warming spices provides a cozy conclusion to your meal, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Coconut Ladoo: For dessert, these sweet, coconut-covered treats offer a delightful finish, contrasting perfectly with the savory richness of the Butter Chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Butter Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy reheating later.
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Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency.
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Avoid Splitting: Always reheat slowly to prevent the sauce from splitting; a delicate touch ensures that the flavors stay rich and comforting.
Expert Tips for Butter Chicken
- Marination Matters: For best results, marinate the chicken for longer than 1 hour if possible—up to overnight will deepen the flavor immensely.
- Broiling Tips: Ensure your broiler is fully preheated for even cooking and a delicious char on your chicken pieces.
- Sauce Consistency: To prevent the creamy sauce from splitting, reheat gently on the stovetop instead of the microwave when enjoying leftovers.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by tweaking the amount of serrano chile and Kashmiri chili powder to suit your palate.
- Serving Virtuosity: Always serve Butter Chicken with rice or naan to soak up the mouthwatering sauce—it’s essential for a complete meal experience.
Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavors, ensure your spices are fresh and your tomatoes are vibrant and not overly processed. When selecting chicken, opt for boneless, skinless thighs that appear juicy and plump; the meat should be a slightly pinkish color, with no dark spots or unpleasant smells.
How should I store leftover Butter Chicken?
To keep your Butter Chicken delicious, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it; this helps maintain its rich flavor and creamy texture.
Can I freeze Butter Chicken, and what’s the best way to do it?
Very! To freeze Butter Chicken, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if my butter chicken sauce is too thick or split?
If you find that your sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or water until it reaches your desired consistency—this usually does the trick. If the sauce has split, don’t fret! Simply whisk in a little bit of heavy cream over low heat, stirring continuously until the sauce smoothens out.
Is this Butter Chicken recipe suitable for my family with dairy allergies?
If you’re cooking for those with dairy allergies, simply substitute the heavy cream and yogurt with coconut milk or a non-dairy yogurt to achieve a similar creamy texture. The flavors will still be delicious, providing a delightful alternative!
Can I customize the spice levels in my Butter Chicken?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely adjust the spice levels to suit your palate. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of Kashmiri chili powder or remove the serrano chili altogether. For more heat, add an extra pinch of cayenne or use a spicier chili variety.
Creamy Butter Chicken Your New Favorite Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, garam masala, ginger, salt, and Kashmiri chili powder. Add the chicken pieces, coat them well in the marinade, and refrigerate for 1 hour for maximum tenderness.
- Preheat your broiler. Spread the marinated chicken evenly on a baking sheet lined with foil and broil for about 15 minutes, or until charred and thoroughly cooked through.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it darkens in color and deepens in flavor.
- Mix in the chopped serrano chile and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Then add ground cumin, heavy cream, fenugreek, and the pre-cooked chicken along with a splash of water. Stir everything together and allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and separates from the fat.
- Taste your Butter Chicken and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warmly over basmati rice or with naan for a complete meal.