Butter chicken is a classic Indian dish that blends tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfectly paired with naan bread or basmati rice, butter chicken is a true crowd-pleaser and a staple in Indian cuisine.

Butter Chicken is a combination of flavors that captures the essence of Indian cuisine in a single, unforgettable dish. Picture tender pieces of chicken, marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, soaked in a creamy sauce infused with the warmth of spices like cumin, curry and garam masala. The sauce is further complimented by the addition of heavy cream and coconut milk, creating a perfect balance of soft and savory notes. What truly sets butter chicken apart is its ability to provide a complex flavor profile without overwhelming the palate. Served with white rice or warm, buttery garlic naan, it’s a dish that both comforts and delights.

My family loves this recipe. We first had authentic butter chicken at an Indian restaurant, and it took a few tries of making it at home until I felt the recipe was perfected. It is so well-loved, my girls request it for their birthday dinners. My daughters and I are Indian food lovers, and my husband is not but he loves this recipe as much as we do.

Why You Will Love This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe:

Rich and Creamy Sauce: The velvety sauce, enriched with heavy cream, creates a luxurious texture and a flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Perfect Balance of Spices: Butter Chicken offers a blend of warm spices like cumin, curry powder and garam masala, balanced by the tanginess of tomatoes and the creaminess of the coconut milk and heavy cream.
Versatile Pairings: Whether served with basmati rice, naan, or even a simple side salad, Butter Chicken complements and enhances any meal, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavors, Butter Chicken is relatively easy to prepare, making it a great option for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts (cubed)
1 medium onion (chopped)
4 tbsp butter
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp ginger
1 tsp salt
1 tsp turmeric
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp garam masala
2 tsp curry powder
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1 can full-fat coconut milk
1 tbsp honey
1/2 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

In a large pan over medium high heat, drizzle some olive oil and sauté the chicken pieces and the onion. After a few minutes, if it has accumulated liquid, you can pour that off.
Add the butter and the minced garlic and let it cook some more. The chicken does not have to be ready before you continue, it will finish cooking in the butter chicken sauce.
Sprinkle the salt, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and curry powder over the chicken.
Turn down the heat before adding the following ingredients: water, coconut milk, heavy cream, tomato paste, and honey.
Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, then add chopped cilantro.
Turn off heat, and serve over rice or with naan bread.

Tips to make this creamy butter chicken recipe turn out perfect:

Simmer Gently: Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the cream to separate.
Consistency: Adjust the sauce’s consistency with water or chicken stock as needed. It should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too runny.
Finishing Touches: Add fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and fresh flavor just before serving.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Add more salt, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

FAQ’S:

What is garam masala?

Garam masala is a blend of ground spices used extensively in Indian cuisine. It typically includes spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, nutmeg, and black pepper. Each brand may have its unique blend, sometimes adding fennel seeds, bay leaves, or even star anise.

Why does this recipe not require the chicken to be marinated?

Most butter chicken recipes require the chicken to be marinated in a yogurt marinade. If the cooking process involves simmering the chicken in a richly flavored sauce for an extended period, the chicken will still absorb the flavors well, even without marination.
Chicken, if cooked properly, can be tender without marination. The simmering process in the creamy sauce also helps to tenderize the chicken.
For beginners or those looking for a simplified version of butter chicken, skipping the marination step can make the recipe less intimidating and easier to follow.

How Spicy is Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken is generally mild compared to other Indian dishes. However, you can adjust the heat level by adding red chili powder according to your taste preference.

How Do You Serve Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken pairs beautifully with:

Naan bread or any Indian flatbread
Steamed basmati or jasmine rice
Fresh salads

How is butter chicken different than chicken tikka masala?

Flavor: Butter chicken is milder and creamier, while chicken tikka masala is spicier and more robust.
Sauce: Butter chicken uses more butter and cream, creating a richer and smoother sauce. Chicken tikka masala has a spicier, tomato-forward sauce.
Origin: Butter chicken is traditionally Indian, whereas chicken tikka masala has British-Indian origins. Both dishes are incredibly delicious and cater to different tastes. Whether you prefer the rich, buttery goodness of butter chicken or the spicy, tangy flavor of chicken tikka masala, you can’t go wrong with either!

Can I Make a Vegetarian Version of Butter Chicken?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or tofu to enjoy a vegetarian version of this dish.

How Do You Store Leftover Butter Chicken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen or thin the sauce.

Other Recipes You Will Love:

Sourdough Garlic Naan Bread

Ground Beef Orzo with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup