I can still remember the first time I tasted butter chicken. It was a heartwarming evening, filled with vivid aromas wafting through the air, drawing me closer to the kitchen. The rich, creamy texture of the sauce combined with tender pieces of chicken had me hooked instantly. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a blend of spices and flavors that create sheer comfort on a plate. Making butter chicken from scratch isn’t only possible; it’s quite simple and oh-so-rewarding.
What truly makes butter chicken special is its velvety sauce, a delightful melody of spices and cream. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet, and the marinated chicken melts in your mouth. Not only is it an indulgent dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, but it also makes for a beautiful centerpiece when entertaining guests. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll impress anyone who sits at your table.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick cooking time for flavorful meals.
- Creamy texture that soothes the palate.
- Rich aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Perfect for batch cooking or meal prep.
- Pairs beautifully with rice or bread.
“Absolutely mouthwatering and so easy to make!”
Step-by-step overview
This delightful dish comes together in a few straightforward steps. Begin by marinating the chicken in a mixture of spices and yogurt, allowing the flavors to meld. Next, create a fragrant sauce by sautéing garlic and onion, adding tomatoes, cream, and spices. Cook the chicken until it’s perfectly tender, then combine everything for a dish that embodies comfort and satisfaction.
Key ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Chicken thighs keep the dish tender, but breasts can be used for a lighter option.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess, but sour cream works in a pinch.
- If avoiding dairy, try coconut cream for a similar texture and flavor.
Cooking method
Butter chicken is easier to make than you might think! Here’s how to create this wonderful dish:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well until the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to marinate.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant and the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, optional cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Stir and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
- In a separate pan, cook the marinated chicken over medium heat until browned and fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir in the remaining butter. Allow it to simmer for an additional few minutes so that the flavors can meld beautifully.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.
Pro Tip: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate longer—up to overnight is ideal.
Extra advice
- Always pat your chicken dry before adding it to the pan to achieve that perfect sear.
- If your sauce is too thick, simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
- Taste and adjust the spices according to your preference, adding more cayenne for heat or a pinch of sugar if the acidity needs balancing.
Serving suggestions
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy naan bread, perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce. It also sits wonderfully on a bed of fragrant steamed rice, making each bite a delightful experience. For a burst of freshness, top your dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
How to store & freeze
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. They can last up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, butter chicken freezes well; just ensure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until steaming hot.
Troubleshooting
If your butter chicken turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking the chicken. Be sure to monitor cooking time closely. If the sauce is too sour, a bit more sugar can help balance out the acidity. For a thinner sauce, add more cream or broth; for a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Flavor swaps
While butter chicken is delicious as is, don’t hesitate to make it your own! You can experiment with adding a handful of spinach or other vegetables for a nutrient boost. Using different proteins, such as shrimp or paneer, can also change the entire dynamic of the dish while keeping it just as impressive.
Common questions
Can I make butter chicken vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. A plant-based yogurt can substitute Greek yogurt.
What kind of spices are best for butter chicken?
The hallmark spices include garam masala, cumin, and coriander for that authentic flavor profile. Feel free to play with the ratios according to your taste.
How spicy is butter chicken?
The spice level can be adjusted easily! Start with no cayenne pepper if you prefer it milder, and add it slowly until you reach your desired heat.
Can I adjust the creaminess level?
Yes! You can reduce the amount of heavy cream for a lighter dish or enhance it with more cream for an indulgent treat.
Enjoy cozy evenings filled with delicious butter chicken and the warmth of flavorful spices. This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also creates lasting memories around the dining table with loved ones.
Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well until the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to marinate.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant and the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, optional cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Stir and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
- In a separate pan, cook the marinated chicken over medium heat until browned and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir in the remaining butter. Allow it to simmer for an additional few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.