Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken

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Velvety, rich, and irresistibly flavorful, Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings restaurant-quality Indian cuisine right into your kitchen. Tender chunks of marinated chicken simmer in a luxurious tomato-based sauce, infused with warming spices and finished with cream for that signature smooth texture. Whether you’re cooking for guests or craving a cozy night in, this dish delivers bold flavor and comforting satisfaction in every bite.

What makes butter chicken so universally loved is the harmony it strikes between spice and sweetness. The creamy, buttery gravy balances the robust garam masala and tangy tomatoes to create a flavor that’s indulgent yet perfectly balanced. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice, naan, or roti to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken

• It’s packed with bold, aromatic flavors but mellowed by a silky cream sauce.
• Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
• Customizable spice level to suit every palate.
• Tastes even better the next day – perfect for leftovers!
• Pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or flatbread for a complete meal.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the best Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken, having the right tools on hand ensures a smoother cooking experience:

• Large Skillet or Deep Frying Pan: Essential for browning the chicken evenly and later simmering the sauce to perfection.
• Mixing Bowls: Needed for marinating the chicken; use glass or stainless steel to avoid staining or odor retention.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: For achieving that ultra-smooth sauce texture.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping chicken and preparing ingredients precisely.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: Spice balance is everything in butter chicken – measure accurately for consistency.

Each of these tools plays a crucial role in both the flavor development and texture of the final dish.

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Preparation Tips

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices and yogurt to tenderize and infuse the meat with flavor. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds juiciness, but chicken breast can work too if you prefer leaner meat. When cooking the chicken, sear it until lightly charred for added depth, but don’t overcook it at this stage since it will finish cooking in the sauce. For the sauce, simmer the tomatoes and spices well before blending – this ensures a smoother consistency and richer taste. Finish with cream and butter at the end for that signature silky finish, and don’t forget to sprinkle fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

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Ingredients for this Butter Chicken Recipe

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp ginger paste
• 1 tbsp garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1.5 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tbsp oil (optional, helps prevent burning the butter)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1.5 tbsp garlic paste
• 1 tbsp ginger paste
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1.5 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder (or Kashmiri chili powder for color)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1.5 cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Sear the Marinated Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter (with a touch of oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken pieces in batches until they are browned and slightly charred on the edges. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the chopped onions until soft and golden brown. Add garlic and ginger paste, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Spice Base

Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, chili powder, and garam masala. Stir the spices into the onion mixture, letting them bloom and release their aroma for about a minute.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the tomato puree and stir well. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should darken and thicken as the raw tomato taste cooks out.

Step 6: Blend the Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

Use an immersion blender directly in the pan or transfer the sauce to a blender to purée until smooth. Return the smooth sauce to the skillet if needed.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce with Cream and Butter

Stir in the heavy cream and a tablespoon of butter. Add sugar if needed to balance the acidity. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to develop a rich, velvety texture.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the seared chicken to the sauce. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Adjust salt to taste.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti.

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Notes

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight—this allows the spices and yogurt to deeply penetrate the meat. If using chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs. The sauce thickens as it simmers, so if it gets too thick, simply add a splash of water or cream to adjust the consistency. Don’t skip blending the sauce if you want that classic restaurant-style smoothness—it makes a big difference. Finally, adjust chili and sugar levels to your preferred balance of heat and sweetness.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the marinade: This step is essential for flavor and tenderness.
• Overcrowding the pan: Brown the chicken in batches to avoid steaming instead of searing.
• Not simmering the tomatoes long enough: This can leave the sauce tasting raw and overly acidic.
• Adding cream too early: High heat can curdle the cream—always stir it in at the end on low heat.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste and adjust salt, spice, and sweetness toward the end.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making it even tastier the next day. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is butter chicken?

It’s mildly spiced. You can adjust the chili powder to make it hotter or keep it mellow for a family-friendly version.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, though thighs stay juicier. If using breast, watch the cooking time to avoid drying out.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and vegan butter or oil. Use dairy-free yogurt for the marinade.

Do I have to marinate the chicken?

Marination is key for flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, try to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes. Let it cool completely and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw and reheat with a splash of cream or water.

What should I serve with it?

It pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan, roti, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, butter chicken is a great make-ahead meal. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Why is my sauce not smooth?

The sauce likely wasn’t blended. Use an immersion or countertop blender after simmering the tomatoes for a silky texture.

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Conclusion

Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken is an irresistible, crowd-pleasing dish that balances deep spices with rich, buttery indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner exploring Indian cuisine, this recipe delivers a foolproof way to recreate one of the world’s favorite curries right at home. With just a few tools and simple steps, you’ll enjoy a dish that’s bursting with flavor, comfort, and restaurant-worthy elegance.

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