Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe (Easy & Flavorful!)
Looking for a creamy, delicious, and easy-to-make butter chicken recipe? This classic dish combines tender marinated chicken with a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant-style flavor: Achieve the creamy, buttery taste of authentic butter chicken at home.
Simple ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find.
Make-ahead option: Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor!
Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Butter Chicken
Chicken Marinade
2.2 lb boneless, skinless chicken (cut into cubes)
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp garam masala
1 tbsp kosher salt
Butter Chicken Sauce
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 1/2 cups chopped onion
2 tbsp coarsely chopped garlic
2 tbsp garam masala
2 tbsp paprika
1/4 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp kosher salt
2 cups diced, no-salt-added canned tomatoes
3/4 cup heavy cream (35% or whipping cream)
2 tbsp butter
Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, lemon juice, minced garlic, garam masala, and kosher salt.
Massage the chicken well to ensure the spices coat evenly.
Let the chicken sit at room temperature while you prepare the sauce, or marinate it in the refrigerator overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Sauce
Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and cook slowly until golden brown (about 15 minutes). This step adds sweetness to the sauce.
Add the garlic and stir it in with the onions until fragrant.
Mix in the garam masala, paprika, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Stir for about 1 minute to bloom the spices.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
Reduce the heat, then slowly add the heavy cream while stirring.
3. Blend the Sauce
Use a handheld immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to blend the sauce until smooth and creamy.
Once blended, return the sauce to the saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the bowl and place it into the simmering sauce.
Cover the saucepan and cook on medium heat for 15 minutes.
Check that the chicken is fully cooked (no longer pink inside) before proceeding.
5. Finish & Garnish
Stir in the butter until melted, adding a rich, velvety finish to the sauce.
Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a side of cucumber raita or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken
Marinate overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer deepens the flavor.
Don’t skip the blending: Blending the sauce creates the signature creamy texture.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the garam masala or paprika.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work beautifully in this recipe.
2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use vegan butter.
3. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes! Allow the dish to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream.
Nutrition Information
Serving size: 1 portion (serves 6)
Calories: ~400 per serving
Protein: ~30g
Fat: ~20g
Carbs: ~12g
Final Thoughts
This butter chicken recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. With its bold spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, it’s a true comfort food classic.
Did you try this recipe? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later or share it with your friends.
Enjoy your homemade butter chicken!
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