Butter Chicken is one of those dishes I can make again and again without ever getting bored. It’s rich, creamy, mildly spiced, and unbelievably comforting. Every spoonful tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. If you love warm spices, tender chicken, and a velvety tomato-based sauce, this recipe will become your new favorite.
Today, I’m sharing my easy, foolproof Butter Chicken recipe—perfect for beginners, families, and anyone craving a cozy meal.
Quick Facts
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cooking Time: 35 minutes
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Total Time: 55 minutes
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Serving Size: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort dish. Here’s why I adore it:
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Tender chicken cooked in a buttery, creamy gravy
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Mild spice level — great for kids and spice-sensitive eaters
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Restaurant-style flavors made with pantry ingredients
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Perfect for weeknights or special occasions
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Tastes even better the next day!
The balance of tangy tomatoes, silky cream, and warm Indian spices makes this dish irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade
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500g chicken (boneless or bone-in), cut into medium pieces
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½ cup yogurt
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1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
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1 tsp red chilli powder
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1 tsp garam masala
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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Salt to taste
For the Gravy
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 tomatoes, pureed
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1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
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1 tsp turmeric
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1 tsp coriander powder
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1 tsp cumin powder
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1 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp garam masala
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½ cup fresh cream
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1 tsp sugar (optional, balances the tang)
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Salt to taste
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Kasuri methi (crushed), for garnish
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Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
How to Make Butter Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Mix the chicken with yogurt, spices, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt.
Let it rest for at least 30 minutes—longer if possible. This makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Sear the marinated chicken in a pan with a little oil until lightly browned.
It doesn’t have to be fully cooked yet—it will finish cooking in the gravy.
Step 3: Make the Base Gravy
In the same pan, add butter and chopped onions. Sauté until golden.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Stir in the spice powders and sauté briefly.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
This step builds the rich flavour Butter Chicken is known for.
Step 5: Add Chicken & Cream
Add the seared chicken to the gravy, along with salt and sugar.
Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Lower the heat and stir in cream and kasuri methi—this makes the sauce silky and aromatic.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Add a swirl of cream and fresh coriander.
Serve hot and enjoy the richness!
Serving Suggestions
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Basmati rice – classic and perfect
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Butter naan – soft and fluffy to soak up the gravy
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Roti or paratha – great everyday options
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Fresh salad or cucumber raita – balances the richness
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Add a squeeze of lemon or extra kasuri methi on top
Tips for Customization
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Want it spicier? Add green chillies or extra chilli powder.
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Want it lighter? Replace cream with milk or coconut milk.
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Want a smoother gravy? Blend the cooked onion-tomato mixture before adding the chicken.
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Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream + oil instead of butter.
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Restaurant-style smoky flavour: Add a small piece of burning charcoal in a bowl, place inside the pot, and cover for 1–2 minutes.
Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)
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Calories: 385
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Protein: 28g
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Carbs: 12g
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Fat: 25g
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Fiber: 2g
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover grilled or tandoori chicken?
Yes! It adds amazing smoky flavour.
2. Can I make Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day.
3. Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes — freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
4. What cream should I use?
Heavy cream or fresh cream works best. Avoid whipping cream.
5. Can I replace chicken with paneer or tofu?
Yes! The gravy works beautifully with both.
Final Thoughts
Butter Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm, comforting experience. Every spoonful brings a perfect blend of spices, creaminess, and tenderness. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this recipe guarantees a delicious, restaurant-style dish made right at home.
