Rich and Creamy Butter Chicken – A Restaurant-Style Classic at Home

If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent dish that’s packed with bold flavors and creamy richness, Butter Chicken is the answer. This iconic Indian-inspired dish, also known as Murgh Makhani, is beloved for its tender chicken pieces bathed in a velvety tomato-cream sauce that’s spiced just right. The recipe you’re about to discover brings the same restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen with simple ingredients and easy steps.

The heart of this dish lies in the blend of fragrant spices—garam masala, cayenne pepper, and tandoori masala—that elevate the rich tomato and cream base. What makes this version special is the layering of flavors: sautéed onion and garlic, tomato sauce simmered in butter and cream, and a marinade that infuses the chicken with smoky depth before it’s even added to the sauce. Served with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice, Butter Chicken is not just a dish—it’s an experience.

This recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you’re simply craving something warm and satisfying. Once you make it, it’ll likely become a staple in your comfort food rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Authentic Flavor at Home

This recipe delivers rich, restaurant-quality Butter Chicken with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

2. Incredibly Creamy Sauce

The combination of butter, tomato sauce, and heavy cream creates an ultra-luxurious, velvety texture.

3. Perfectly Spiced

A balanced blend of spices adds warmth and depth without overwhelming heat, making it enjoyable for most palates.

4. Tender Chicken

Marinated and lightly seared chicken absorbs all the bold flavors and stays juicy and tender throughout.

5. Great for Leftovers

Like many curry-style dishes, Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

• Butter
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Cayenne pepper
• Garam masala
• Chicken breast
• Vegetable oil
• Tandoori masala

Variations

• Use Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs for even more flavor and juiciness.
• Add Yogurt to the Marinade: Mix in some plain yogurt with the tandoori masala and oil to create a more traditional marinade.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or roasted vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes.
• Make It Spicier: Add extra cayenne or green chilies if you prefer more heat.
• Lighter Option: Replace part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with tandoori masala and vegetable oil. Toss well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the marinated chicken until browned on all sides (it does not need to be fully cooked). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, melt another tablespoon of butter. Add minced onion and sauté until soft and golden. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Add the tomato sauce to the pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in salt, cayenne pepper, and garam masala. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 5: Add Cream and Chicken

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining butter. Return the seared chicken to the pan and simmer for another 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro (optional) and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Spices: For the most vibrant flavor, make sure your spices are fresh and fragrant.
• Don’t Skip the Marinade: Even 30 minutes of marination improves the depth of flavor in the chicken.
• Control the Heat: Start with less cayenne if you’re spice-sensitive, then add more to taste.
• Simmer Gently: Once you add the cream, keep the heat low to prevent curdling.
• Use a Heavy Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet helps prevent the sauce from burning.

How to Serve

Butter Chicken is best served with fluffy basmati rice or Indian breads like naan or roti. You can also add a side of cucumber raita or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a full Indian-inspired meal, pair it with lentils (dal) or spiced chickpeas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen over time.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Transfer cooled Butter Chicken to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, crushed or pureed canned tomatoes work well—just simmer longer to reduce the acidity.

2. Is this dish very spicy?

It’s moderately spiced. You can adjust cayenne and tandoori masala levels to suit your heat tolerance.

3. What’s the difference between tandoori masala and garam masala?

Tandoori masala is a spice blend used primarily for marinating meats, while garam masala is a warming blend often added during cooking for aromatic depth.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with vegan butter and cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream.

5. Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have melded.

6. Can I use precooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, though marinated raw chicken gives better flavor. If using precooked chicken, add it to the sauce just long enough to heat through.

7. What if I don’t have tandoori masala?

You can use a mix of paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and a bit of cayenne as a substitute.

8. How do I make it richer?

Use ghee instead of butter or stir in a spoonful of cashew cream for a luxurious touch.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a large enough pot to avoid crowding.

10. What wine pairs with Butter Chicken?

A slightly sweet Riesling or a creamy Chardonnay balances the richness and spices beautifully.

Conclusion

Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining a creamy tomato sauce with warm, aromatic spices and tender chunks of marinated chicken. This version gives you all the classic flavor of the beloved restaurant dish with the simplicity of home cooking. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try and is sure to win hearts around your table. Enjoy it with rice, naan, and your favorite drink—and don’t forget to savor the leftovers!

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