Butter chicken: 4 Steps to Irresistible Comfort Food

Name: Butter chicken: 4 Steps to Irresistible Comfort Food
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces; 1 cup yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; Cilantro for garnish

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 20, 2025

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Oh, butter chicken! Just the thought of it makes my heart skip a beat. This dish is a beloved classic in Indian cuisine, and for good reason! With its rich, creamy sauce and tender marinated chicken, you’re in for a serious treat. I remember the first time I tried it – the explosion of flavors just wrapped around me like a warm hug. The spices dance together perfectly, and that velvety texture is simply irresistible. Butter chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a comfort food that brings people together. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, and you’ll find yourself craving it time and time again!

butter chicken - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch fresh ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Prepare Butter Chicken

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making butter chicken! It’s quite an adventure, and I promise each step will take you closer to that creamy, flavorful dish you’ve been dreaming about. Here’s how to bring it all together, step-by-step.

Marinating the Chicken

The first step is all about flavor! In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the plain yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and all those wonderful spices: garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Mix it well until every piece of chicken is coated in that fragrant marinade. Oh, the aroma is heavenly! Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least one hour. Trust me, this step is crucial because it allows the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors. If you can, let it marinate longer – even overnight is fantastic!

Cooking the Base

Once your chicken is ready to go, it’s time to bring your kitchen to life! Heat the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As it melts, you’ll start to smell that rich, buttery goodness. Now, add in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté these ingredients until the onions turn a lovely golden color. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want them soft and aromatic, creating a beautiful base for your sauce. Keep stirring to avoid any browning, and just enjoy the scent wafting through your kitchen!

Adding the Chicken and Simmering

Now for the star of the show! Add your marinated chicken to the skillet, letting those beautiful pieces sizzle as they hit the hot pan. Cook them until they’re browned on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. This is where the magic happens! Next, stir in the tomato puree, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. You’ll see the sauce thickening, and it’s like a warm, inviting hug in a pan!

Final Touches

Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, it’s time for the grand finale! Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and a sprinkle of salt to taste. Give it a few more minutes to let everything mingle together. You’ll notice the sauce becoming luxuriously creamy and rich. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro before serving! Wow, just look at that color! Serve your butter chicken with fluffy rice or warm naan, and get ready for a delicious experience that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter chicken is truly a gem, and making it at home comes with so many delightful perks! Here are some reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

Quick Preparation Time: With just an hour of marinating and about 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of butter and heavy cream creates that to-die-for velvety sauce that makes every bite a comforting experience. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Adjustable Spice Levels: Whether you like it mild or with a spicy kick, you can easily tailor the spices to your taste. So, feel free to get creative and make it just how you love it!
Impressive yet Simple: This dish looks like it came from a fancy restaurant, but it’s super simple to make. Your friends and family will think you’re a culinary genius!
Perfect for Leftovers: Butter chicken keeps well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy those rich flavors even the next day. It’s just as tasty, if not better!

Trust me, once you try making butter chicken at home, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Tips for Success

Getting butter chicken just right is all about those little details that elevate the dish from good to absolutely phenomenal! Here are my favorite tips for ensuring your butter chicken is a hit every time:

Choose Bone-In Chicken: For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken pieces instead of just fillets. The bones add depth and moisture, making the final dish even more delicious. Plus, they can be super juicy!
Don’t Skip the Marination: As I mentioned earlier, giving your chicken enough time to marinate is crucial. If you can, let it sit overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it melt-in-your-mouth good!
Adjust the Spices: Everyone has different spice preferences, so feel free to tweak the amounts of garam masala, cumin, or chili powder to suit your taste. If you like a little heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can really kick things up a notch!
Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the dish. Don’t be shy – sprinkle it on generously for that perfect finish!
Pair It Right: Butter chicken shines when paired with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, which are perfect for soaking up that luxurious sauce. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad to add a refreshing contrast.
Leftover Magic: If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), they can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of butter chicken. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this dish just like I have!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutrition of this delicious butter chicken! It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body while you enjoy this rich and creamy dish. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for one serving of butter chicken:

Calories: 490
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 800mg

Keep in mind that these values are an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any modifications you might make. But one thing’s for sure: butter chicken is a satisfying meal that packs a punch with protein and flavor! Enjoy every mouthful, knowing it’s a treat that can fit into your meal planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about butter chicken? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my tips to help you make this dish even better:

Can I use other meats?

Absolutely! While traditional butter chicken uses chicken, you can definitely switch things up. Feel free to use boneless thighs or even try it with lamb or paneer for a delightful vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For example, lamb might take a bit longer to become tender, so adjust accordingly!

How can I make it spicier?

If you’re craving some heat, there are a few simple ways to spice things up! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili powder to the marinade or the sauce while it simmers. If you’re really bold, toss in some chopped green chilies for an extra kick! Just remember to taste as you go, so it doesn’t overpower the lovely flavors!

What are good side dishes to serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken shines brightest with the right accompaniments! I recommend serving it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up that luscious sauce. You could also whip up some roasted vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad for a nice contrast. Another delicious option is to pair it with a side of lentil dal or a simple raita to balance the richness of the dish!

Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your perfect pairings! Butter chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors, so have fun with it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious butter chicken, and now you might have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing it properly is key to keeping all those rich flavors intact, so here’s how to do it right:

First, let your butter chicken cool down a bit before you store it. You don’t want to trap steam in the container, which can make things soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent any funky fridge smells from sneaking in. You can store your butter chicken in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to label it with the date, so you know when it’s time to finish it off!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super simple. You can do this on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you’re using the stovetop, pour the butter chicken into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it gently as it warms up, adding a splash of water or cream if it looks too thick. This will help bring back that creamy consistency!

If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works great too! Just put your butter chicken in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters), and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. Remember, it’s important to check the temperature to ensure it’s heated evenly!

And voilà! You’re all set to dive back into that comforting, flavorful dish. Enjoy every last bite, and don’t forget – butter chicken is just as delicious the next day!

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve learned how to make this incredible butter chicken at home, I can’t wait for you to dive in and give it a try! There’s something so rewarding about creating a dish that’s not only rich and creamy but also filled with vibrant flavors. Trust me, once you taste that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

I’d love to hear about your experiences in the kitchen. Did you make any adjustments? How did it turn out? Feel free to leave a comment below to share your butter chicken journey – whether it’s a success story or a little mishap, I want to hear it all! And if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to rate it. Your feedback helps me create more delicious dishes for all of us to enjoy!

So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and let the aroma of butter chicken fill your home. Happy cooking!