Name: Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, diced; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon turmeric; 1 cinnamon stick; ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste; ¼ cup chicken broth; 14 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can); 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 cup plain yogurt

There’s nothing quite like settling down with a comforting bowl of Butter Chicken — that iconic dish that perfectly balances creamy, spiced tomato sauce with the tenderest bits of marinated chicken. This recipe nails the layers of warmth and flavor that make Butter Chicken a legend in Indian households as well as worldwide. Whether you’re inviting friends over for a feast or just craving something utterly delicious for yourself, this homemade version will sweep you off your feet every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even though Butter Chicken tastes restaurant-special, its ingredients are refreshingly straightforward. Each spice, every dollop of yogurt, and even the splash of cream works together to create a finished dish that’s rich in taste and full of irresistible aromas.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These are juicier than breast and perfect for soaking up every spicy note.
Butter: The star ingredient! It lends richness and rounds out the heat from the spices.
Onion: Cooking this down until soft deepens the savory base and sweetens the sauce.
Fresh ginger: Adds pungency and zest, waking up every bite.
Garlic: Five cloves might sound generous — trust me, it’s perfect here for that classic depth.
Cumin: Both in the marinade and sauce, cumin brings earthy warmth and subtle smokiness.
Garam masala: This is your key to authentic Indian flavor and can’t be skipped.
Ground coriander: Soft, slightly citrusy notes that pair beautifully with tomato.
Chili powder: For a gentle heat; use more or less based on your preference.
Turmeric: This golden spice gives both color and a subtle bitterness that balances the creamy sauce.
Cinnamon stick: A whole stick infuses mellow warmth without overpowering the sauce.
Kosher salt: A must to bring out all the other flavors.
Chicken broth: Lifts and thins the sauce while adding savory depth.
Crushed tomatoes: For that tangy, well-rounded tomato flavor and a thick base.
Granulated sugar: Just enough to round out acidity from the tomatoes.
Heavy whipping cream: This gives Butter Chicken its trademark silky finish.
Fresh lemon juice: Zings up the marinade and helps tenderize the chicken.
Plain yogurt: Essential for marinating — it both softens the chicken and adds subtle tang.
Olive oil or vegetable oil: For browning the chicken; don’t skip this step for best flavor.

How to Make Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

The first secret to unforgettable Butter Chicken happens long before you even touch the stove: marination! Whisk together lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, and plain yogurt in a large bowl, then toss in the chicken thighs until they’re thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let it rest for at least 30 minutes in the fridge for deeply infused flavor (but if you have time, overnight is magic!). The marinade not only boosts taste, it ensures every piece stays meltingly tender.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil in a heavy pan and heat over medium-high. Shake any excess marinade from the chicken, then lay each piece in the hot pan. Let them sizzle until both sides have a golden brown crust — about 6 minutes total. This is where you earn those delicious, caramelized edges! Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside, but don’t clean the pan; you’ll build the sauce with all those tasty bits left behind.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Spices

Drop the butter into the same pan and let it melt into the flavorful chicken drippings. Add diced onion and cook gently until it’s translucent and soft, not browned. Now stir in the grated ginger, minced garlic, cumin, garam masala, coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and the cinnamon stick. Let everything cook together just for a minute — the aroma is your cue! This step wakes up the spices and sets the stage for a truly complex sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the crushed tomatoes and sugar. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan — they’re pure flavor! Add the browned chicken pieces back into the sauce, nestling them in so every bite gets coated. Bring the mixture up to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, reducing the sauce until it’s slightly thickened and beautifully fragrant.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Finish with the heavy whipping cream. Stir it in and watch the sauce turn instantly creamy and rich, its color shifting to that signature warm orange. Simmer gently for another 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce clings to the chicken. Remove the cinnamon stick before serving. Now all that’s left is to gather everyone around — it’s finally time for your homemade Butter Chicken moment!

How to Serve Butter Chicken

Garnishes

Butter Chicken shines with a splash of color on top. Most classic is a flurry of freshly chopped cilantro, which gives fresh herbal notes and contrasts beautifully against the creamy sauce. A drizzle of extra cream or a knob of butter just before serving takes it over the top. If you love a bit of zest, a few quick-pickled onions or a squeeze of lemon add brightness.

Side Dishes

Nothing soaks up the luscious sauce of Butter Chicken like soft, warm naan bread or tender homemade rotis. Steamed basmati rice is another perfect side, with each fluffy grain catching every drop of sauce. For a more festive table, offer both — and maybe a quick cucumber raita for a cool contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve Butter Chicken as a filling inside a soft wrap or pita with crisp lettuce and onions for a fun fusion lunch. For gatherings, try pouring the rich sauce over baked potatoes or roasted cauliflower florets — especially dazzling at a potluck!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any cooled leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen and mellow overnight, making your lunch or dinner the next day even tastier. It will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Butter Chicken freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, transfer portions to freezer-friendly containers or heavy-duty zip bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for gentle, even reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm Butter Chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a Tablespoon of water or cream if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave single servings, covered, in short bursts, stirring each time until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works if you prefer it, though thighs will have more juiciness and richer flavor. If using breast, just be careful not to overcook so it stays tender.

Is this Butter Chicken recipe very spicy?

This version is mild to medium, so it’s family friendly. If you like more heat, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne alongside the other spices.

Can I make Butter Chicken dairy-free?

You can! Swap the butter for vegan butter or a neutral oil, the yogurt for plant-based yogurt, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The result is just as creamy and full of flavor.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

Garam masala is key for authentic flavor, but in a pinch you can substitute a mix of cinnamon, cloves, cumin, cardamom, and a hint of nutmeg in equal measure.

How can I double this recipe for a crowd?

No problem — just double all ingredients, use your largest pan or pot, and allow extra time to brown the chicken in batches. Everyone will love your big batch of Butter Chicken!

Final Thoughts

Give this Butter Chicken recipe a try and I promise it’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen. Every bite brings comfort and warmth, inviting you back again and again — whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a lifelong fan. Let me know how it turns out, and don’t be surprised if it gets requested at every get-together from now on!

Butter Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need