Butter Chicken (Spiced Chicken in Creamy Tomato Sauce)

Butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a beloved dish that draws people in with its rich, creamy sauce and aromatic spices. This recipe is a staple in Indian cuisine, often served at celebrations or cozy dinners. Whenever I whip up this dish, I’m immediately transported to those vibrant restaurant experiences—each bite taking me deeper into flavor heaven. Whether you’re planning a special family meal or just craving something comforting, this dish delivers in every way imaginable.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes butter chicken truly special? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. The magic happens when tender chicken thighs soak up the delicious marinade, imparting a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. What’s more, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages, making it a perfect choice for gatherings, parties, or an indulgent family dinner.

“This butter chicken recipe brought back memories of my favorite Indian restaurant. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a hit with the entire family!” – Jamie, satisfied home cook.

Don’t forget how budget-friendly this dish can be. A simple marinade and pantry staples are all you need to create an extraordinary meal that feels fancy without breaking the bank.

Preparing Butter Chicken (Spiced Chicken in Creamy Tomato Sauce)

Let’s talk about how simple it is to whip up this delectable dish. The process can be broken down into a few easy steps that lead to soul-satisfying results. First, you’ll marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices, infusing it with flavor. Next, sauté the onions to build a savory foundation before incorporating the marinated chicken and simmering it all together in a luscious creamy tomato sauce.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Naan and rice for serving

Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a leaner option. And for a splash of acidity, diced tomatoes can be used instead of crushed, but ensure it cooks long enough to soften.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, coating it well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum flavor).
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
4. Toss in the marinated chicken, cooking until it’s nicely browned on each side.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Pour in the heavy cream, mixing it well. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot with naan and rice.

Best Way to Serve

When it comes to serving, butter chicken shines brightest with warm naan bread or fluffy basmati rice. The sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. For an appealing presentation, sprinkle some additional cilantro on top and accompany the dish with a side of raita—an excellent yogurt-based condiment that balances the meal’s richness.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is almost inevitable because it’s so good!), you’ll want to store it properly. Place the butter chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to help restore its creamy consistency. Butter chicken can also be frozen for up to three months—just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pro Chef Tips

• Marination is Key: Allow your chicken to marinate longer if possible. Overnight marination deepens the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Temperature Matters: Avoid high heat while cooking; medium heat helps to develop flavors without burning the spices.
• Balance the Richness: Consider serving a tangy salad or pickles to contrast the richness of the butter chicken.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Try adding some fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of color and added nutrition. You can also experiment with different spices like turmeric or cardamom for a unique flavor profile. If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk, giving it a luscious tropical twist.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this butter chicken recipe?

It takes about 30 minutes for marinating, plus an additional 30 minutes for cooking. So you’re looking at an hour total!

Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can work well, but ensure they don’t overcook to stay juicy.

Is the sauce spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Feel free to cut down on the garam masala or paprika for a milder flavor.

Can I use a different yogurt?

Yes! Greek yogurt works wonderfully, but if you want a dairy-free option, look for plant-based yogurt alternatives.

With each spoonful of this butter chicken, you’ll be reminded of why it remains a favorite in households around the globe. Ready to try it yourself? Your taste buds will thank you!

Butter Chicken

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• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy, flavorful butter chicken that takes you on a culinary journey to India with every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Naan and rice for serving

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, coating it well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum flavor).
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
4. Toss in the marinated chicken, cooking until it’s nicely browned on each side.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Pour in the heavy cream, mixing it well. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot with naan and rice.

Notes

For a healthier option, substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk. Serve with a tangy salad or pickles to contrast the richness of the dish.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: butter chicken, Indian cuisine, creamy sauce, chicken recipe, comfort food