If you’ve ever craved that rich, indulgent taste of North Indian comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe. It delivers tender chicken bathed in a luscious, velvety sauce that’s bursting with warm spices, tangy tomatoes, and creamy butter. The best part is how effortlessly the flavors come together, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser that feels both luxurious and homey at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating the magic in this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role—from the spices that build bold layers of flavor to the butter and cream that give the sauce its irresistible smoothness.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (1 lb): Thighs offer juicier texture, but breasts work well too for a leaner option.
- Plain yogurt (1 cup): Acts as the perfect marinade base, tenderizing the chicken and adding subtle tang.
- Crushed tomatoes or tomato puree (1 cup): Provides rich acidity and vibrant color to the sauce.
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp): Gives the dish its characteristic creamy indulgence and depth.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Balances the spices with smoothness, making every bite silky.
- Garam masala (2 tsp): A fragrant spice blend that is the heart of the dish’s complex flavor profile.
- Coriander powder (1 tsp): Adds a citrusy undertone that brightens the sauce.
- Cumin powder (1 tsp): Brings earthy warmth, enriching the overall taste.
- Turmeric powder (1 tsp): Gives a golden color and subtle earthiness.
- Chili powder (to taste): Customize the heat level to your liking for mild warmth or bold spice.
- Salt (to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors naturally.
- Onion, garlic, and ginger: These aromatics create a fragrant base that lifts the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken in plain yogurt combined with garam masala, coriander, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. This step is absolutely vital because the yogurt tenderizes the meat while the spices infuse it with layers of flavor. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes—if you have more time, even better! This patience pays off beautifully in taste and texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Next, heat a skillet and cook the marinated chicken pieces until they turn golden brown on the outside. This quick sauté locks in the juices and adds a lovely caramelized flavor. Once cooked, set the chicken aside while you move on to the sauce. Don’t worry about overcooking here since the chicken will simmer again later.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and gently cook the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger until they become soft and aromatic—this is where the kitchen starts to fill with those irresistible smells that will make your mouth water. Then, stir in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in the remaining spices. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce
Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the rich tomato sauce. Allow everything to gently simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Just before serving, stir in the heavy cream for that signature creamy finish. Taste and adjust salt or chili to your preference—the sauce should be smooth, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro leaves or a few slivers of toasted almonds can elevate your Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe both visually and in flavor. A drizzle of extra cream on top gives a decadent touch that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
Serve this butter chicken alongside steamed basmati rice or warm, soft naan bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a fresh contrast, a simple cucumber raita or a crisp green salad works beautifully and balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the butter chicken in a rustic bowl with a wedge of lemon on the side. You can also layer it over a bed of saffron-infused rice and garnish with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors even deepen with time, making leftovers just as delightful as freshly made.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently warm on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the sauce silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer lean meat, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in this recipe.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk or a cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative that still keeps the sauce rich and creamy.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?
Yes, simply increase the chili powder or add some chopped green chilies during cooking for more heat to suit your taste buds.
Can I prepare the marinade and sauce in advance?
Definitely! The chicken can marinate overnight for even better flavor, and the sauce can be made a day ahead to save time on cooking day.
What is the best way to reheat butter chicken?
The best way is to gently warm it on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken while keeping the sauce creamy and smooth.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about making and sharing this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe with your loved ones. It’s a dish that brings warmth, delicious aromas, and a touch of elegance to any meal. I hope you give it a try and experience the joy of cooking and savoring one of my all-time favorite classics.
Print
Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This classic Butter Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken marinated in yogurt and aromatic spices, cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. It’s a creamy, flavorful Indian dish perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- Chili powder, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Sauce and Cooking
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece ginger, minced
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, garam masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a portion of the butter, then add the marinated chicken. Cook until the chicken turns golden brown on all sides but is not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger until fragrant and the onions are translucent. Add the crushed tomatoes or tomato puree along with the remaining spices. Stir well and simmer the sauce gently for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop flavor.
- Finish Cooking Chicken: Return the sautéed chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream to enrich the sauce, mixing well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or chili powder if needed. Heat through for a couple more minutes without boiling.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra richness and authentic flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Adjust chili powder according to your desired spice level.
- Marinating longer, up to overnight, enhances the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.
- Leftover butter chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
