If you have been craving a dish that combines rich, velvety sauce with tender, flavorful chicken, this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe balances aromatic spices with a luscious creamy tomato sauce that wraps every bite of chicken in warmth and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Indian cuisine, this dish feels like a hug on a plate—perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends with a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s vibrant in color, layered in flavors, and beautifully textured. Each one plays a key role, from the fragrant spices to the creamy tomato base that defines the character of this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps develop a silky sauce texture.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Balances the butter and prevents burning while sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and body to the sauce when caramelized.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides fragrant depth with a mild punch.
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated: Brings a fresh zing and warmth to brighten the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers a nutty, earthy foundation to the spice blend.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds mild citrus notes that freshen the palette.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder: Contributes a beautiful golden hue and subtle earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Lends a gentle heat that can be adjusted to taste.
- 1 teaspoon garam masala: A complex spice mix that layers in warmth and sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom: Adds a delicate floral and citrus lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Intensifies earthiness with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 cup tomato puree: The vibrant base that gives the sauce its signature color and tang.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 1/2 cup water: Adjusts sauce consistency perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances acidity from the tomato and lemon.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity to elevate all flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing and blending all the ingredients.
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a fresh herbal finish for garnish.
How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting the butter alongside vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This combination ensures a balanced fat base that helps the onions soften without burning. Once hot, add finely chopped onions and sauté them gently until they turn golden and sweet, about 5 minutes. This step lays the flavor foundation; don’t rush it because caramelized onions provide natural sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Next, stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn but releases its wonderful aroma. Garlic and ginger together bring a bright and warming background flavor which is essential for the depth of this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe.
Step 3: Bloom the Spices
Sprinkle in all the ground spices—cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Stir them into the sautéed onion mixture and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Cooking the spices at this stage awakens their oils and intensifies their flavor, turning the dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 4: Add Tomato Puree
Pour in the tomato puree and give everything a good stir. Allow the mixture to cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step thickens the base and melds the spices with the tomato’s rich, tangy sweetness, setting the stage for the creamy sauce ahead.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Water
Slowly stir in the heavy cream until the sauce becomes perfectly smooth and luxuriously creamy. Then add water to thin the sauce slightly to your preferred consistency. The balance between cream and water is key to achieving that luscious texture that defines this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe.
Step 6: Season and Add Chicken
Mix in sugar, lemon juice, and salt to carefully balance sweetness, brightness, and savoriness. Then add the bite-sized chicken pieces, stirring to coat them fully in that aromatic sauce. This step ensures each piece is infused with flavor right from the start of simmering.
Step 7: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through thoroughly while absorbing the aromatic sauce, making every bite tender and flavorful. Don’t forget to check the seasoning at the end and adjust the salt or lemon juice as needed.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor. Your Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to be served hot with classic sides.
How to Serve Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a beloved garnish for this dish, but you can also add a dollop of cream or a sprinkle of crushed fenugreek leaves for extra aroma and a touch of elegance. These simple add-ons elevate the dish’s appearance and taste, making every serving feel special.
Side Dishes
The best partners for this creamy delight are fluffy basmati rice and warm, buttery naan bread. The rice perfectly soaks up the sauce, while the naan invites you to scoop up every last bit. For a lighter option, try serving with roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber raita to add cooling contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe in individual bowls garnished with extra cilantro and a wedge of lemon on the side for a personal touch. Alternatively, layer it over a bed of saffron rice in a shallow platter for a beautiful communal presentation that encourages sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or dinners. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating.
Freezing
You can freeze the butter chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Freeze without cilantro garnish and add fresh herbs upon reheating for the best flavor and texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for gentle defrosting.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or cream to bring back that creamy lusciousness. Microwave reheating works too, but stir halfway through for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a great choice because they stay juicy and tender, plus they soak up the sauce beautifully. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is this recipe very spicy?
Not necessarily. The chili powder adds mild heat, but you can easily adjust it or leave it out to suit your preference. The creamy sauce also tempers the spice, making it approachable for all palates.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that still delivers rich creaminess.
What’s the best way to serve butter chicken for a crowd?
Keep the sauce and chicken warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish. Set out rice, naan, and garnishes family-style so guests can customize their plates easily and enjoy the meal together.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat and add freshly cooked chicken or warm the chicken in the sauce until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Making this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe at home is like inviting a little piece of comfort and celebration into your kitchen. It’s approachable yet luxurious, simple yet impressive—the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary night into something special. So, gather your ingredients, savor these steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dinner that’s truly heartfelt and delicious.
Print
Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 45m
- Total Time: 1h 0m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This classic Butter Chicken recipe offers tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken simmered in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness and tanginess, this comforting Indian dish is ideal to serve with warm naan or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Spices and Aromatics
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Proteins and Dairy
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Liquids and Others
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat fats: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat until melted and shimmering.
- Sauté onions: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant while stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add spices: Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves to the skillet. Stir well to coat the aromatics and toast the spices lightly.
- Bloom spices: Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to release their oils and deepen their flavors.
- Add tomato puree: Pour in the tomato puree and stir to combine. Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to meld.
- Add cream: Pour in the heavy cream slowly, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Adjust sauce consistency: Add 1/2 cup of water to thin the sauce to your preferred consistency, mixing thoroughly.
- Season sauce: Stir in sugar, lemon juice, and salt, mixing well to balance the flavors.
- Add chicken: Add the cut chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly in the flavorful sauce.
- Simmer chicken: Cover the skillet and simmer the chicken over medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked and tender, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt or lemon juice as needed to enhance the flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the cooked butter chicken.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot, accompanied by rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase chili powder or add fresh chopped green chilies.
- Use heavy cream for richness, but coconut milk can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
- Skim off excess oil from the sauce if desired for a lighter meal.
- Leftover butter chicken tastes great reheated and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Garam masala varieties differ, so adjust quantities based on your preferred spice blend strength.
