Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish packed with aromatic spices and a buttery tomato-based sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, served over rice or with warm naan bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy – The combination of butter, cream, and Greek yogurt creates a luscious and velvety sauce.
- Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of warm spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric.
- Easy to Make – Simple steps make this dish approachable for home cooks.
- Great for Meal Prep – The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
- Customizable Heat – Adjust the chili powder to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Butter
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Grated ginger
- Garam masala
- Ground cumin
- Ground turmeric
- Chili powder
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground coriander
- Salt and pepper
- Tomato sauce
- Heavy cream
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, cinnamon, and coriander. Toast the spices for about a minute.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Greek yogurt, mixing until smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and flavors are well blended.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Make it Spicier – Add more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and yogurt.
- Vegetarian Version – Substitute the chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Smoky Flavor – Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Nutty Twist – Stir in ground cashews or almond flour for extra creaminess.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
How do I make butter chicken less spicy?
Reduce or omit the chili powder and use mild garam masala.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer longer, or add a spoonful of tomato paste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Serve it with basmati rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal.
Can I use canned tomato sauce?
Yes, canned tomato sauce works perfectly. Just ensure it’s plain without added herbs.
How do I make it creamier?
Increase the amount of heavy cream or stir in a little butter at the end.
Is butter chicken the same as tikka masala?
No, butter chicken has a creamier, buttery sauce, while tikka masala has a spicier tomato-based sauce.
Can I make it without yogurt?
Yes, replace Greek yogurt with extra heavy cream or coconut milk.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours after sautéing the spices and onions. Add cream and yogurt in the last 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Butter Chicken is a flavorful, creamy dish that’s easy to prepare at home. Whether you enjoy it mild or spicy, it’s a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with rice or naan. Try making it today for a delicious homemade Indian-inspired feast!
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Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian dish made with tender chicken in a buttery tomato-based sauce. Infused with warm spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric, this restaurant-style dish is easy to make at home. Serve it with rice or naan for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Chicken – Heat 1 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Aromatics – In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of butter. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Toast the Spices – Stir in garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, cinnamon, and coriander. Toast for 1 minute.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce – Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for 5-6 minutes until thickened.
5️⃣ Add Cream & Yogurt – Lower the heat, stir in heavy cream and Greek yogurt until smooth.
6️⃣ Simmer with Chicken – Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
7️⃣ Serve & Garnish – Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
- For extra spice, add more chili powder or a dash of cayenne.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and yogurt with coconut milk.
- For a smoky flavor, add 1 tsp smoked paprika.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a spoonful of tomato paste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
