Butter Chicken | Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian curry made with tender pieces of chicken simmered in a silky tomato, butter, and cream sauce. Known for its mild spice and luxurious texture, this popular Indian dish combines aromatic spices with a delicious balance of savory, tangy, buttery, and slightly sweet flavors.
The chicken is traditionally marinated with yogurt and spices before being cooked until lightly charred and tender. It is then finished in a smooth tomato-based gravy enriched with butter and cream. The result is a comforting restaurant-style curry that's perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Serve Butter Chicken hot with fragrant basmati rice, naan, roti, or paratha.
Cooking Method
- Combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and salt in a bowl.
- Add the chicken and mix until thoroughly coated.
- Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken in batches until browned and nearly cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt the butter with the vegetable oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 6–8 minutes, until softened and lightly golden.
- Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Add the tomato puree, coriander, garam masala, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt.
- Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the water or chicken stock and stir well.
- For an extra-smooth sauce, blend the mixture carefully until silky.
- Return the sauce to the pan.
- Add the cooked chicken and simmer for 8–10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and sugar if using.
- Simmer gently for another 3–5 minutes. Avoid boiling vigorously after adding the cream.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Stir in an extra tablespoon of butter if desired for a richer finish.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, roti, or paratha.
Share this Recipe
Link copied to clipboard!