Butter chicken: 7 Comforting Reasons to Savor This Dish

Name: Butter chicken: 7 Comforting Reasons to Savor This Dish
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken fillet, cubed; 1 cup yogurt; 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp chili powder; 2 tbsp butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 1, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Butter chicken holds a special place in my heart and my kitchen. This rich and creamy dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender chicken pieces with a buttery tomato sauce that’s packed with flavor. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s house; the aroma filled the air, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. The spices danced together beautifully, and the creaminess made every bite feel indulgent. It’s one of those recipes that can elevate a cozy weeknight dinner into something truly special. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up! Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself after a long day, butter chicken is always a winner. Trust me, once you try making this dish at home, you’ll be hooked! So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

butter chicken - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken fillet, cubed
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp chili powder
2 tbsp butter
1 onion, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Prepare Butter Chicken

Making butter chicken is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. Start by marinating the chicken, which is crucial for infusing flavor and tenderness. You’ll want to combine the cubed chicken with the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder in a bowl. Make sure every piece is coated well, then cover it and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit longer—up to a few hours—will yield even better results!

Marinate the Chicken

Marinating is your secret weapon for creating flavorful butter chicken. Mix the cubed chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. I like to use my hands to really get in there and ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated. After mixing, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you can let it marinate for a few hours or overnight, even better! This helps the chicken soak up all those delicious spices, making it tender and full of flavor.

Cooking the Base

Now, it’s time to build that rich base for your butter chicken! Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat, letting it get nice and bubbly. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The scent is heavenly! Once the onions are ready, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned all over. This locks in the flavors and starts the magic!

Simmering for Flavor

The simmering step is where butter chicken truly comes to life! After the chicken is browned, stir in the tomato puree and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After that, pour in the heavy cream and give it a good stir. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes delightfully creamy. This is the moment when your kitchen fills with the most irresistible aroma—trust me, you’ll want to dive in right away!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of marinating and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time!
Rich Flavor: The combination of spices, butter, and cream creates a luxurious sauce that’s bursting with flavor and makes every bite a delight.
Versatile Dish: You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, making it perfect for both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Butter chicken stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for leftovers.
Family Favorite: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress family and friends at any gathering or dinner party.
Pairs Well with Everything: Serve it with rice, naan, or even over a salad for a complete meal that’s always satisfying.
Comfort Food: It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul, perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions.

Tips for Success

To ensure your butter chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips you won’t want to miss! First, don’t rush the marinating process. The longer the chicken sits in those flavorful spices, the more tender and tasty it’ll be—aim for at least an hour if you can! If you’re feeling adventurous, try using bone-in chicken pieces; they pack even more flavor into the sauce.

When it comes to spices, feel free to adjust them to your liking. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the chili powder or even skip it altogether. On the flip side, if you love spicy food, add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Finally, don’t forget to taste as you go! A pinch of salt can elevate the dish, and remember, the creaminess will mellow the spices. Just trust your instincts, and you’ll make a butter chicken that everyone will rave about!

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, butter chicken is incredibly versatile! One of my favorite variations is to swap out the chicken for shrimp or paneer, making it a fantastic option for seafood lovers or vegetarians. Just remember, shrimp cooks faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!

Another delightful twist is to add vegetables. Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during the simmering phase for added color and nutrients. You can also experiment with different spice blends, like adding a bit of cumin or coriander for a unique flavor profile.

If you want to take a fusion approach, try using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a tropical vibe. It pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a rich and creamy sauce that’s slightly different but oh-so-delicious! The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to butter chicken, it’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can’t provide precise numbers, a typical serving of this delicious dish (about 1 cup) generally contains around 450 calories, 30 grams of fat, and 30 grams of protein. You’ll also find about 6 grams of sugar and 800 milligrams of sodium. It’s a rich meal, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Just remember, the flavors and satisfaction you get from this delightful dish are worth it!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I make butter chicken in advance?
Absolutely! Butter chicken actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Q2. What can I substitute for yogurt in the marinade?
If you don’t have yogurt on hand, you can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Both will work well to tenderize the chicken and add creaminess. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!

Q3. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, you can freeze butter chicken! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q4. How can I make butter chicken spicier?
For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of chili powder in the recipe or add some chopped green chilies when cooking. A dash of cayenne pepper can also do the trick if you’re feeling adventurous!

Q5. Can I use other proteins in this recipe?
Definitely! While chicken is traditional, you can use shrimp, paneer, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying butter chicken, the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level! I love serving it with fluffy basmati rice, which perfectly soaks up that rich, creamy sauce. You can also go for warm naan bread—just imagine tearing off a piece to scoop up all that deliciousness. If you’re in the mood for something different, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa for a healthy twist. And don’t forget a side of cooling cucumber raita to balance the spices! Whatever you choose, these accompaniments will make your butter chicken experience unforgettable!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this butter chicken recipe or explore healthy chicken recipes for more ideas!