1 Shares

This Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful Indian curry that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Marinated in a spiced yogurt base and simmered in a tomato cream sauce, the chicken becomes irresistibly tender while the sauce turns silky and fragrant. With no need for specialty ingredients, this recipe is perfect for first-timers and curry lovers alike—served best with basmati rice, naan, or flatbread.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

½ cup full-fat plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp turmeric powder
2 tsp garam masala
½ tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1.5 lb (750 g) chicken thigh fillets, cut into bite-size pieces

For the Curry:

2 tbsp ghee or butter (or 1 tbsp vegetable oil)
1 cup tomato passata (tomato puree)
1 cup heavy cream (or ¾ cup light cream + ¼ cup milk)
1 tbsp sugar
1¼ tsp salt

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix all marinade ingredients. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.

2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat ghee or oil in a large skillet over high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade (don’t wipe off excess) and cook until white all over—about 3 minutes (the marinade prevents browning).

3. Make the Sauce:
Add tomato passata, cream, sugar, and salt to the skillet. Also pour in any remaining marinade. Turn heat to low and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.

4. Finish & Serve:
Taste and adjust salt as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro (optional) and serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or flatbread.

Nutrients (Per serving – approx. 310g)

Calories: 402 kcal
Protein: 39.8g
Fat: 23.4g
Saturated Fat: 9.3g
Carbohydrates: 9.8g
Sugar: 6.5g
Fiber: 0.9g
Cholesterol: 193mg
Sodium: 928mg

Why Butter Chicken Is So Popular Worldwide

Butter Chicken is universally loved because it strikes the perfect balance between bold spice and mellow creaminess. Unlike some curries that lean heavily on heat, this dish focuses more on depth—warmth from garam masala, slight tang from yogurt and lemon, sweetness from tomatoes and cream, and just enough chili to awaken the taste buds.

Its mellow richness appeals to adults and children alike, and its silky texture makes it feel indulgent and satisfying. Served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, it transforms into a complete, comforting meal that nourishes the body and soul.

A Marinade That Makes the Chicken Incredibly Tender

The secret to Butter Chicken’s irresistible texture lies in its marinade. A blend of creamy yogurt, citrusy lemon juice, and a medley of earthy spices like turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and chili infuses the chicken with flavor from the inside out. Yogurt works as a natural tenderizer, breaking down the proteins in the meat so it stays juicy and soft during cooking.

Letting the chicken marinate for several hours—or overnight, if time allows—not only enhances its flavor but also gives the final dish that signature restaurant-style texture that melts in your mouth.

The Signature Creamy Tomato Sauce

Once the chicken is seared, it’s simmered in a vibrant sauce made with tomato passata (puree), heavy cream, sugar, and salt. The remaining marinade is added directly into the sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. The result is a silky, coral-colored curry that clings to every piece of meat.

The sauce deepens in flavor and color as it simmers, taking on a slightly sweet and tangy character that balances beautifully with the richness of the cream. It’s luscious, fragrant, and full-bodied—perfect for soaking into every grain of rice or tear of naan.

A Dish That Feels Special But Is Surprisingly Simple

Despite its luxurious taste, Butter Chicken is incredibly straightforward to make at home. All it takes is a few common spices, a quick marinade, and a single skillet. There’s no need for hours of simmering or hard-to-find ingredients—just real food, cooked with care and layered with flavor.

This accessibility is part of what makes Butter Chicken a weeknight hero. It delivers big on taste with minimal prep, making it ideal for both casual dinners and more elevated occasions. You can even prep the marinade in the morning and cook the curry fresh in the evening, saving time without compromising taste.

Perfect Pairings for the Ultimate Meal

To round out your Butter Chicken dinner, serve it with freshly steamed basmati rice or fluffy naan bread. These absorb the sauce perfectly and help highlight the dish’s creamy, comforting texture. For a more elaborate spread, consider adding sides like cucumber raita, mango chutney, or a fresh tomato and onion salad for contrast.

A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a drizzle of extra cream adds a beautiful final touch for presentation, while optional garnishes like slivered almonds or chili oil can add extra flair for special occasions.

Tips for Achieving Authentic Flavor at Home

To get that deep, restaurant-style flavor, don’t skip the marinating step. Even just 3 hours will make a difference, but overnight will elevate it even further. Use chicken thighs rather than breasts, as they stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking.

When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan so it sears properly. Although it won’t brown deeply due to the yogurt coating, a quick high-heat sear helps build flavor. Simmer the sauce on low heat to prevent curdling the cream and to allow the spices to infuse the dish evenly.

If you want to add heat, increase the chili powder or add a fresh chili or pinch of cayenne to taste. For a richer sauce, use full-fat cream; for a lighter option, a mix of milk and cream works well too.

Balanced and Nourishing Without Feeling Heavy

Although indulgent, this Butter Chicken recipe offers a nutritious balance. It provides high-quality protein from the chicken and healthy fats from ghee or butter. Yogurt adds probiotics, and tomatoes contribute vitamins and antioxidants like lycopene.

When paired with whole-grain rice or whole-wheat naan, it can be part of a balanced meal that satisfies cravings while still being nourishing. If you’re watching your intake, you can easily lighten the cream content without compromising flavor by using light cream or coconut milk.

Customizable for All Diets and Preferences

Butter Chicken is flexible enough to adapt to a variety of dietary needs. You can make it dairy-free by using plant-based yogurt and coconut cream. It’s naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, making it ideal for gluten-sensitive or keto-friendly meals when served with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables.

For vegetarians, substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu—the marinade and sauce work beautifully with these alternatives. You can also bulk up the curry by adding chickpeas or spinach for extra fiber and nutrients.

A Cozy Crowd-Pleaser That Never Fails

Whether you’re introducing someone to Indian cuisine or feeding a group of curry lovers, Butter Chicken is always a safe bet. Its smooth, mellow heat and creamy consistency make it one of those dishes that disappears quickly—second helpings are practically guaranteed.

It’s equally suitable for a casual dinner at home or a festive gathering. Because it tastes even better the next day, it’s also perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

Conclusion

Butter Chicken is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. From the warm, spiced marinade to the velvety tomato cream sauce, every bite offers a comforting and indulgent journey of flavor. With its approachable method, easily accessible ingredients, and deeply satisfying taste, it’s a must-have recipe for any home cook.

Whether served for a special occasion or a simple family meal, this curry brings warmth, richness, and a touch of exotic flair to your table. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why Butter Chicken is a global favorite—and why it deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation.

Pin1