Print

Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe

4.6 from 135 reviews

A rich and creamy Butter Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken simmered in a flavorful spiced tomato sauce, finished with cream and butter for a classic Indian comfort dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (pureed tomatoes or tomato puree)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics and spices: In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, and paprika and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ aroma.
  4. Simmer in tomato sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Add salt to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add the browned chicken back to the skillet. Cover and let cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
  5. Finish with cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
  • Adjust the amount of garam masala and paprika for preferred spice level.
  • For a lighter version, substitute cream with coconut milk.
  • Butter Chicken pairs well with naan or steamed basmati rice.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Butter Chicken, Indian Butter Chicken, Creamy Chicken Curry, Garam Masala Chicken, Indian Main Dish