Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the simmering pot on my stove, the tantalizing aroma of spices wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the bustling streets of India. Butter Chicken has become my go-to comfort food, with its creamy texture and rich, spiced sauce that’s deceptively simple to recreate at home. This quick and easy dish promises to turn any weeknight meal into a delightful gathering—for cozy family dinners or impressing friends! Plus, it’s so versatile; you can enjoy it with traditional naan or steamed rice, or even opt for lighter versions using coconut cream or chicken thighs. Are you ready to master this mouthwatering Butter Chicken and make your kitchen your new favorite restaurant? Why Is Butter Chicken a Must-Try? Comforting, Creamy Goodness: Butter Chicken is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, velvety sauce envelops tender chicken pieces, making every bite a delight. Easy to Prepare: Surprisingly simple to whip up at home, this dish can be on your table in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer chicken thighs for juiciness or a dairy-free option with coconut cream, this recipe adapts to your tastes effortlessly. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With a blend of spices that tantalize the taste buds, it’s a hit with family and friends alike. Serve it with warm naan or fluffy rice for the ultimate experience! For more fantastic chicken dishes, check out my Garlic Butter Chicken or Peanut Butter Chicken. Butter Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs – The juiciness of thighs adds richness; breasts are a leaner option if preferred. • Salt – Always a flavor enhancer; adjust to your liking. • Garlic Powder – Infuses depth into the marinade, making the chicken more flavorful. For the Marinade • Sweet Paprika – This offers a mild sweetness and vibrant color to your Butter Chicken. • Curry Powder – Adds warmth and spice; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference. • Greek Yogurt – Tenderizes the chicken while introducing a delightful tang to the dish. For the Sauce • Vegetable Oil – Ideal for cooking chicken due to its high smoking point, ensuring golden browning. • Butter – Creates a rich and decadent sauce. • Garlic Cloves (minced) – The aromatic base for your sauce; freshness matters! • Medium Onion – Sautéing releases its natural sweetness, building flavor complexity. • Tomato Sauce – Provides the acidic backbone of the sauce. • Sugar – Balances the acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile. • Black Pepper – Adds a kick of heat and depth to the dish. • Heavy Cream – The secret to that luscious, creamy texture in Butter Chicken. For Seasoning • Cayenne Pepper (optional) – For those who adore extra heat; tweak based on your spice tolerance. • Garam Masala – This essential blend guarantees authentic Butter Chicken flavor. For Garnish and Serving • Parsley (optional garnish) – A sprinkle of freshness elevates the dish visually. • Naan Bread and Steamed Rice – The perfect accompaniment for soaking up that delicious sauce. Unleash the comforting magic of Butter Chicken in your kitchen, and enjoy an instantly gratifying meal that your loved ones will cherish! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a medium bowl, combine skinless boneless chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to infuse flavors while you prepare other ingredients. Step 2: Cook the Chicken Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer and cook for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, leaving any juices in the pan. Step 3: Prepare Sauce Lower the heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and chopped medium onion, sautéing them until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, about 3-5 minutes. Scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the skillet to enhance the sauce’s depth. Step 4: Build Sauce Base Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, mixing well until combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken slightly. Keep an eye on it, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet. Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce Once the sauce has simmered, return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet. Gently stir to coat each piece in the rich sauce. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and luxurious, ensuring everything is heated through. Step 6: Season and Simmer Add cayenne pepper, garam masala, and black pepper to the skillet, adjusting the spice levels to your preference. Allow the Butter Chicken to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, letting the spices infuse and the sauce thicken further. Step 7: Finish with Butter As the final touch, stir in the remaining butter, enhancing the sauce’s richness and achieving a silky texture. If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for added freshness and color before serving. Step 8: Serve Serve your luscious Butter Chicken hot with warm naan bread and steamed basmati rice on the side. This comfort food delight is perfect for soaking up the velvety sauce, creating an unforgettable meal that your family and friends will love. Expert Tips for Butter Chicken Marinate Properly: Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes to really absorb those flavors and ensure juiciness. Control the Heat: Use medium-high heat for cooking chicken; too low can make it rubbery, while too high might burn the exterior before cooking it through. Creamy Texture: To achieve the best buttery sauce, add cream slowly while stirring, and adjust the amount based on how rich you want it. Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less cayenne pepper if you’re unsure about spice; you can always add more later to suit your palate. Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top adds not only color but also a bright flavor contrast to your Butter Chicken. Butter Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to put your unique spin on this recipe and elevate your Butter Chicken experience with these delightful options! Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, tropical twist that’s lighter on dairy. Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper or use hot curry powder to turn up the heat for those who crave a fiery kick. Vegetarian Friendly: Swap out chicken for chickpeas or paneer to create a satisfying vegetarian version that still packs a punch of flavor. Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for an aromatic freshness that brightens the dish. Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a spoonful of almond or cashew butter into the sauce for an added depth of flavor and creaminess. Citrus Zest: Grate a bit of fresh lemon or lime zest into the sauce for a burst of zip that enhances the overall flavor profile. Smoky Touch: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor that beautifully complements the spices. Cheesy Delight: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese, like mozzarella or parmesan, at the end for a decadent, cheesy Butter Chicken experience. With these variations, you can personalize your Butter Chicken experience to match your cravings! For more delicious chicken options, check out my flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken or try my rich Peanut Butter Chicken. Enjoy experimenting! Make Ahead Options These Butter Chicken meal prep options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken with the spices and yogurt up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to intensely deepen. Additionally, the sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, refrigerate the sauce in an airtight container, and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess. When ready to cook, simply combine the marinated chicken with the prepared sauce and follow the finishing steps to simmer everything together, resulting in a delicious Butter Chicken that is just as comforting and rich as when freshly made! What to Serve with Creamy Butter Chicken Indulge in a delightful dining experience that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up that rich, creamy sauce and adds a comforting dimension to your meal. Steamed Basmati Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, this rice absorbs the delicious curry sauce wonderfully, making every bite burst with flavor. Crispy Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies adds a lovely crunch, balancing the creaminess of the Butter Chicken with fresh, vibrant flavors. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a light counterpoint, enhancing the richness of the main dish and making your meal feel complete. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based condiment provides a soothing contrast to the spices, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of creaminess on the side. Lassi: A sweet or salty yogurt drink, lassi wonderfully complements the spices in Butter Chicken while adding a refreshing element to the meal. Mango Chutney: A touch of sweetness from mango chutney pairs beautifully with the spices, enhancing the overall flavor while providing an intriguing contrast. Cardamom Tea: Savor a warm cup of aromatic cardamom tea to round off your meal, soothing and comforting, making it a perfect end to your culinary journey. Embrace these pairings to elevate your Butter Chicken experience and create a truly memorable meal! Storage Tips for Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain its creamy texture. Freezer: Freeze Butter Chicken in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to restore creaminess. Leftovers: Use leftover Butter Chicken in wraps or over salads for a delicious second meal that’s just as comforting! Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for Butter Chicken? Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using skinless boneless chicken thighs. They are juicier than breasts and bring a great richness to the dish. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts are fine; just be sure to avoid overcooking them to prevent dryness. What’s the best way to store leftover Butter Chicken? Very simple! Store any leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to keep the sauce creamy. If you need to keep it longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Can I freeze Butter Chicken? Of course! To freeze, allow the Butter Chicken to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and seal it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened. What should I do if my Butter Chicken sauce is too thin? If you find your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, don’t worry—I’ve been there too! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with ⅓ cup of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into your simmering sauce, and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Does Butter Chicken contain any common allergens? Absolutely, it does! The traditional recipe contains dairy, mainly in the form of yogurt and heavy cream. If you’re allergic to dairy or following a vegan diet, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream for a deliciously rich alternative. Just make sure the yogurt you choose is dairy-free as well. How can I adjust the spice level in my Butter Chicken? Very easily! If you prefer a milder Butter Chicken, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper used or omit it altogether. Starting with a small amount of curry powder is also a great idea, as you can always adjust to taste as the dish cooks. This way, everyone can enjoy a tailored experience! Ultimate Butter Chicken: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite Butter Chicken is a creamy and rich comfort food that brings the flavors of India to your home. Perfect for weeknight dinners! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: IndianCalories: 520 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs Juicy alternative to chicken breasts1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances flavorFor the Marinade1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Adds sweetness and color1 tablespoon Curry Powder Adjust for spice preference1 cup Greek Yogurt Tenderizes chickenFor the Sauce2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil For cooking4 tablespoons Butter Rich sauce base3 cloves Garlic (minced) Freshness is key1 medium Onion Chopped1 cup Tomato Sauce For sauce base1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity1 teaspoon Black Pepper For heat1 cup Heavy Cream For creamy textureFor Seasoning1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional) For extra heat1 tablespoon Garam Masala Essential for authentic flavorFor Garnish and Serving1 tablespoon Parsley (optional garnish) For freshness4 pieces Naan Bread For serving2 cups Steamed Rice Ideal for soaking up sauce Equipment Large skilletMedium Bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter ChickenIn a medium bowl, combine skinless boneless chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown, then set aside.In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until onions become translucent.Stir in tomato sauce and sugar, allowing to simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.Return the chicken to the skillet, add heavy cream, and stir until the sauce is creamy and heated through.Add cayenne pepper, garam masala, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes, adjusting spice levels.Stir in remaining butter at the end for a silkier sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure chicken is marinated properly for best flavor. Adjust spices as per preference before cooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
