Creamy, flavorful, and comforting, butter chicken is one of the most popular Indian-inspired dishes to make at home.
Tender pieces of chicken are cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce flavored with garlic, ginger, warm spices, butter, and cream.
Serve it with basmati rice or warm naan for an easy dinner the whole family can enjoy.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken
- Butter
- Onion
- Garlic
- Fresh ginger
- Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- Heavy cream
- Garam masala
- Curry powder
- Paprika
- Turmeric
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh cilantro
Directions
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with the spices.
Heat butter in a large skillet and cook the chicken until browned.
Remove the chicken and cook the onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger and cook briefly.
Add tomatoes and spices. Simmer the sauce until it becomes rich and fragrant.
Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until cooked through.
Lower the heat and stir in cream and additional butter. Simmer gently until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Garnish with fresh cilantro.
What Makes Butter Chicken So Good?
The combination of tomatoes, butter, cream, and aromatic spices creates a sauce that is both rich and balanced.
The key is allowing the sauce to simmer so the flavors have time to develop.
What to Serve With Butter Chicken
Serve it with:
- Basmati rice
- Garlic naan
- Plain naan
- Cucumber salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed rice
FAQs
Is butter chicken spicy?
It doesn’t have to be. Adjust chili powder or cayenne according to your preference.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Chicken thighs are especially good because they remain tender during simmering.
Can butter chicken be frozen?
Yes, although cream-based sauces can sometimes change texture slightly after freezing and reheating.
Final Thoughts
This easy butter chicken recipe brings restaurant-style comfort food to your kitchen. The creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken make it a perfect weeknight dinner.