Butter Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Butter chicken is one of those comfort dishes that instantly feels special yet familiar. With its creamy tomato-based sauce and tender chicken pieces, it has earned a permanent place on dinner tables around the world. This recipe focuses on simplicity while keeping the authentic flavors intact.
What makes butter chicken so loved is its balance of richness and warmth without being overly spicy. It is smooth, mildly sweet, and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for family meals or casual gatherings. Even beginners can achieve great results with the right steps.
This simple butter chicken recipe is designed for home cooks who want restaurant-style taste without complicated techniques. Using basic ingredients and clear instructions, you can create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and comforting flavor
- Mild spice level for all ages
- Easy-to-follow cooking steps
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep
- Restaurant-style results at home
Cook Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs or breast, cut into cubes
- Plain yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Garlic paste
- Ginger paste
- Red chili powder
- Turmeric powder
- Garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Butter
- Cooking oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Tomato puree
- Cashew paste or heavy cream
- Sugar or honey (optional)
- Dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
- Fresh coriander for garnish
| Best For | Spice Level | Freezer-Friendly |
|---|---|---|
| Family dinners | Mild | Yes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic paste, ginger paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
Step 2: Heat a pan with a little oil and lightly cook the marinated chicken until just done. Remove from the pan and set aside. Do not overcook, as the chicken will cook further in the sauce.
Step 3: In the same pan, melt butter and add chopped onions. Cook until soft and lightly golden, stirring often to avoid burning.
Step 4: Add tomato puree to the pan and cook until the oil begins to separate. This step is important to remove raw tomato flavor and deepen the sauce.
Step 5: Stir in cashew paste or heavy cream, mixing well to create a smooth, creamy base. Lower the heat to prevent curdling.
Step 6: Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce and mix gently. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
Step 7: Crush dried fenugreek leaves between your palms and sprinkle into the curry. Adjust salt and sweetness if needed.
Step 8: Finish with a small knob of butter on top and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Tips & Variations
For extra smoky flavor, you can briefly grill or broil the chicken before adding it to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or low-fat cream. You can also adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing chili powder. For a richer taste, use chicken thighs instead of breast meat.
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people comfortably. It can be easily doubled for larger gatherings without changing the cooking method.
Serving Suggestions
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or plain basmati rice. You can also serve it with jeera rice or garlic naan for a complete meal. A simple cucumber salad or raita on the side helps balance the richness of the dish.
Why it’s Good For You
Butter chicken provides a good source of protein from chicken, which helps support muscle health and keeps you full longer. The spices used have antioxidant properties that support digestion. When enjoyed in moderation, the creamy sauce offers satisfying fats that add flavor and energy. Pairing it with whole grains can make it part of a balanced meal.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rich and comforting flavor | Higher in calories due to butter and cream |
| Easy to customize spice level | Not suitable for dairy-free diets |
| Great for meal prep and leftovers | Requires some prep time |
Nutrition Information
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 420 | 28g | 28g | 14g | 2g | 620mg |
FAQs
Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, it freezes well for up to two months in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of cream?
You can use coconut milk or blended cashews for a dairy-free option.
Is butter chicken very spicy?
No, it is generally mild, but you can adjust spices to your taste.
Can I use store-bought tomato sauce?
Fresh tomato puree is recommended, but plain tomato sauce can work in a pinch.
Conclusion
This butter chicken recipe proves that you do not need complicated steps to enjoy a classic dish at home. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, it delivers creamy texture and rich flavor every time. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
