Delicious butter chicken served with rice and naan, showcasing vibrant curry colors.

Butter Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Butter Chicken is a classic Indian dish loved by many for its rich and creamy flavor. It is a comforting meal that combines tender chicken with a delicious sauce made from tomatoes, spices, and cream. Making Butter Chicken at home allows you to enjoy this restaurant favorite while customizing it to your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or naan.

How to Make Butter Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated or finely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp. garam masala
  • 1 Tbsp. grated or finely chopped peeled ginger
  • 2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1 tsp. Kashmiri chili powder (or 3/4 tsp. paprika plus 1/4 tsp. cayenne)
  • 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2" pieces
  • 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 serrano chile, seeded, finely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. grated or finely chopped peeled ginger
  • 1 tsp. garam masala
  • 1 tsp. ground cumin
  • 1 tsp. Kashmiri chili powder (or 3/4 tsp. paprika plus 1/4 tsp. cayenne)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 Tbsp. dried fenugreek leaves or kasoori methi (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp. (or more) kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, garam masala, ginger, salt, and Kashmiri chili powder. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and place in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
  2. Preheat your broiler and line a large baking sheet with foil. Spread the marinated chicken onto the prepared sheet in a single layer. Broil the chicken, watching closely, until charred and cooked through, about 15 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
  3. In a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, until it darkens, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped chile and ginger, continuing to cook, until fragrant and the tomato paste starts to stick to the pan, about 1 minute more.
  5. Stir in garam masala, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the cream, fenugreek (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, the cooked chicken, and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes. Taste and add more salt if needed.
  7. Garnish with cilantro and serve over cooked basmati rice or with naan.

How to Serve Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is best served hot, accompanied by fragrant basmati rice or soft naan bread. You can also serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors of the dish. For an added touch, consider providing extra cilantro or a wedge of lemon for those who enjoy a bit of freshness.

How to Store Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water or cream to loosen it up when reheating.

Tips to Make Butter Chicken

  • Marinating the chicken for longer, even overnight, will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
  • For an extra kick, feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder or add more chopped serrano chiles.
  • Using fresh spices instead of old ones can make a big difference in flavor. Always check the freshness of your spices.
  • If you can’t find fenugreek leaves, you can skip them; however, they add a lovely depth to the dish.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu. You can also use mixed vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and carrots for a hearty dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast if you prefer. Just note that chicken thighs tend to be juicier.

2. Is Butter Chicken spicy?
The level of spice can be adjusted according to your preference. Use less chili powder or omit the serrano chile for a milder dish.

3. Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Butter Chicken. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.