Creamy Classic Butter Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Classic Butter Chicken is a beloved Indian dish known for its rich, creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken pieces. This comforting meal blends aromatic spices with buttery goodness, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken, cut into pieces
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup cream
• 2 teaspoons garam masala (or mixed Indian spices)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion is soft and golden.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and sprinkle with garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.
3. Step 3: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
4. Step 4: Stir in the cream, mixing gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling, then remove from heat.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.

Tips & Variations

• Marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for 1-2 hours before cooking to add extra tenderness and flavor.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
• Add a handful of chopped cilantro on top just before serving for freshness.

Storage

Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they tend to dry out faster so be careful not to overcook. Boneless, skinless thighs are juicier and more forgiving.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even a simple side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Creamy Classic Butter Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 91 reviews

Classic Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a buttery tomato-based sauce spiced with aromatic ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and an array of traditional spices. This comforting recipe balances tangy tomato, smooth cream, and bold Indian flavors for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce Ingredients

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup tomato sauce (pureed tomatoes or canned tomato sauce)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook the spices with the onion mixture for 1–2 minutes to release their aromas.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly with the spiced butter mixture. Cook until the chicken turns opaque and begins to brown slightly, about 5–8 minutes.
5. Add the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken.
6. Finish with Cream: Slowly stir in the heavy cream to the pan. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy. Adjust salt to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

• For a smoother sauce, you can puree the tomato sauce before cooking.
• Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
• Using chicken thighs will yield a more tender and flavorful dish compared to chicken breasts.
• Butter chicken sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
• Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.

Keywords: Butter Chicken, Indian Butter Chicken, Chicken Curry, Indian Cuisine, Creamy Chicken Curry