Indian Butter Chicken Recipe – A Creamy, Flavorful Classic

Meta description: Learn how to make the authentic Indian Butter Chicken recipe at home. Discover step-by-step instructions, ingredients, cooking tips, and secrets for the perfect creamy, rich curry.

Indian butter chicken recipe

Introduction

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide. With its creamy tomato-based sauce, tender chicken pieces, and aromatic spices, it has become a true comfort food. The Indian Butter Chicken recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare at home, and the results are better than any takeout. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know — from marinating the chicken to creating the silky sauce that makes this dish unforgettable.

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken was first created in the 1950s at a restaurant called Moti Mahal in Delhi, India. The chefs discovered that leftover chicken cooked in a creamy tomato gravy turned into a rich and satisfying dish. Since then, Butter Chicken curry has become an international favorite, often served with naan or rice. Its mild spice level and balanced flavors make it appealing to everyone, even those new to Indian cuisine.

Ingredients for Indian Butter Chicken

To achieve authentic flavor, you’ll need fresh ingredients and a good blend of spices. Below is a list of what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Marinade:

500g boneless chicken (thighs or breast), cut into bite-size pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt to taste

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
3 large tomatoes, pureed (or 1 cup tomato puree)
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan, skillet, or oven to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken pieces until they are about 80% cooked. They will finish cooking in the sauce later. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large pan, melt butter with oil. Add onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add pureed tomatoes, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Cook until the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture. This step is key to developing a rich base for the Butter Chicken curry.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Mix well until the sauce turns smooth and creamy. Add sugar if desired to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Sprinkle in garam masala for depth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir gently, ensuring the chicken is fully coated in the creamy gravy. Let it simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes so the flavors meld together and the chicken becomes tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves. Your homemade Butter Chicken is now ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with:

Steamed basmati rice for a simple, comforting meal
Garlic naan or butter naan to scoop up the creamy sauce
Jeera rice (cumin rice) for an aromatic twist
Paratha or roti for a traditional Indian pairing

Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken

Marinate overnight: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the tomato base to cook until the oil separates — this enhances the depth of flavor.
Adjust spice levels: Add more chili powder for heat, or reduce it for a milder version.
Balance the cream: Too much cream can overpower the dish, so use just enough to create a silky texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using raw chicken directly in the sauce — always pre-cook for the best texture.
Skipping the marination step — this reduces flavor depth.
Overcooking the chicken — it should remain tender, not dry.
Adding cream too early — high heat may cause it to curdle.

Healthier Variations

While Butter Chicken is known for its rich, creamy taste, you can make lighter versions:

Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lighter texture.
Grill or bake the chicken for a healthier preparation method.

Conclusion

The Indian Butter Chicken recipe is a timeless dish that brings together creaminess, spice, and comfort in every bite. By marinating the chicken, carefully preparing the sauce, and balancing spices, you can recreate the authentic flavors of India in your own kitchen. Whether served with naan or rice, this dish will impress your family and guests alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Butter Chicken spicy?
Traditionally, Butter Chicken is mildly spiced, making it suitable for most palates. You can always adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder.

Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes. Let the dish cool completely before storing in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.

What is the difference between Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala?
Butter Chicken is creamier and slightly sweeter, while Chicken Tikka Masala is spicier with a stronger tomato flavor.

What type of chicken works best?
Chicken thighs are preferred because they remain juicy and tender, but chicken breasts work well too if not overcooked.