Best Butter Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Classic That’s Winning Global Hearts

by Jessica | March 29, 2025 4:03 pm

Why Is Butter Chicken[1] So Addictive?

Did you know that Butter Chicken[2] is one of the most Googled Indian dishes worldwide, with over 500,000 monthly searches? That’s not just because it’s delicious—it’s because it bridges the gap between bold spices and comforting creaminess like no other dish. But what really makes Butter Chicken irresistible? Is it the smoky tandoori-style chicken? The velvety tomato-butter sauce? Or that balance of spice and sweetness?

In this blog post, we’ll uncover the secrets behind authentic Butter Chicken and teach you how to make this beloved dish at home. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, our easy-to-follow recipe is packed with tips, nutrition info, healthier swaps, and even storage tricks. So, let’s dive into this aromatic masterpiece of Indian cuisine!

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Ingredients List For Butter Chicken

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless) – 1.5 lbs (juicy and flavorful)
• Yogurt (full fat) – ½ cup (for marination and tenderizing)
• Lemon Juice[3] – 1 tbsp
• Ginger-Garlic Paste – 2 tbsp
• Red Chili Powder (Kashmiri, for color) – 1 tsp
• Salt – to taste
• Garam Masala – 1 tsp
• Turmeric Powder – ½ tsp

For the Butter Sauce:

• Butter (unsalted) – 3 tbsp
• Fresh Tomatoes (pureed) – 2 cups or 4 medium tomatoes
• Heavy Cream – ½ cup
• Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – 1 tbsp, crushed
• Sugar or Honey – 1 tsp (balances acidity)
• Green Cardamom Pods – 2
• Cinnamon Stick – 1 small piece
• Bay Leaf – 1
• Cilantro – for garnish

Substitutions:
Vegetarians can substitute chicken with paneer or tofu. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and vegan butter.

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Timing

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 1 hour (can be done overnight)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes (25% faster than most traditional recipes!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and garam masala. Add chicken pieces and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Tip: The longer the marination, the deeper the flavor. Overnight marination = flavor explosion.

Step 2: Grill or Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp oil or ghee in a skillet. Cook chicken pieces until browned on both sides. Don’t cook through completely—they’ll finish in the sauce.

Pro Tip: Use a grill pan for those beautiful char marks and that tandoori-style smokiness.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt butter. Add cardamom, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Sauté for 1 minute. Add pureed tomatoes and cook on medium heat for 10–12 minutes until oil separates.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of salt while cooking tomatoes to break down acidity.

Step 4: Blend and Strain (Optional for a silky sauce)

Use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender. Strain for extra smoothness. This is the secret to restaurant-quality Butter Chicken.

Step 5: Finish the Curry

Return the sauce to the pan. Add grilled chicken pieces and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cream, crushed kasuri methi, and sugar/honey. Cook another 5 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh cilantro and a swirl of cream or melted butter.

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

Based on a serving size of ~1 cup with chicken, not including rice or naan.

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Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Replace Cream with: Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter version.
• Reduce Butter: Use half the amount and add a splash of vegetable stock for richness.
• Low-fat Chicken: Substitute thighs with chicken breast to cut down on fat.
• Vegan Swap: Use tofu or jackfruit with plant-based cream and butter.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve Butter Chicken with:
  • Basmati Rice[4] (fragrant and fluffy)
  • Garlic Naan or Chapati
  • Cucumber Raita for a cooling contrast
  • Pickled Onions or Lime wedges for zing

Personal Tip: For a fancy dinner, plate it with saffron rice and a sprinkle of toasted almonds on top.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping Marination: This step is key to flavor and tenderness.
2. Overcooking the Chicken: It becomes chewy—cook just until done.
3. Using Raw Tomatoes: Always cook them down thoroughly for the sauce.
4. Neglecting Kasuri Methi: This humble herb is the soul of Butter Chicken.
5. Adding Cream Too Early: Add at the end to avoid curdling.

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Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat Gently: Use stovetop on low heat; add a splash of water or cream if too thick.

Meal Prep Hack: Make a double batch of the sauce and freeze it. Add protein later for a quick midweek dinner.

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Conclusion

Butter Chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s a delicious journey through the heart of Indian cuisine, blending creamy richness with bold spice. From marination secrets to silky sauce perfection, this recipe is your gateway to mastering a globally loved comfort food. Ready to give it a try?

👉 Let us know how your Butter Chicken turned out in the comments below! And if you loved this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more authentic and easy-to-follow meal ideas straight to your inbox.

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FAQs

1. Can I make Butter Chicken without cream?

Yes! Substitute with full-fat Greek yogurt, cashew cream, or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

2. What’s the difference between Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala?

Butter Chicken is creamier, sweeter, and less spicy. Tikka Masala usually has a more robust tomato flavor and stronger spice.

3. Is Butter Chicken spicy?

Traditionally, it’s mild. Adjust chili powder based on your heat tolerance.

4. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, sauté onions and spices first, add marinated chicken and tomato puree, cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, then stir in cream and kasuri methi.

5. What wines pair well with Butter Chicken?

Aromatic whites like Riesling or Gewürztraminer, or a light red like Pinot Noir, work wonderfully.

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Let’s spice things up—share your version on Instagram and tag us @ladysuniverseblog! 🍛✨

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