For an authentic Butter Chicken that tastes just like your favorite Indian restaurant, you’ll love how rich tomato gravy and tender chicken come together. Simmering the sauce gently ensures the spices bloom fully, creating a creamy, aromatic curry that’s perfect for a cozy weekend meal or a special family dinner.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy .
Ingredients for Butter Chicken
For the Marinade
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces for the perfect texture.
- Plain yogurt – The base for a tender, flavorful marinade.
- Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed is always best for that bright acidity.
- Garam masala – The essential spice blend that gives butter chicken its signature warmth.
- Ground turmeric – Adds earthy depth and that gorgeous golden color.
- Ground cumin – A must for that smoky, aromatic touch.
- Chili powder – Adjust to your heat preference, but don’t skip it!
- Salt – Balances all those bold flavors beautifully.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted butter – Richness is key here, so don’t skimp.
- Yellow onion – Finely chopped so it melts right into the sauce.
- Garlic cloves – Freshly minced for the best punch of flavor.
- Fresh ginger – Grated right in for a spicy, aromatic kick.
- Tomato sauce – Canned works perfectly for that smooth, luscious base.
- Heavy cream – Makes the sauce irresistibly velvety.
- Sugar – Just a pinch to round out the acidity of the tomatoes.
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro – Chopped and stirred in at the end for a burst of freshness.
Cook Time for Easy Butter Chicken
Friends, one of my favorite things about this Butter Chicken is how it fits into our busy lives. I remember thinking a dish this luxurious would take all day, but you can have it on the table in under an hour.
Truly, this is one of the most satisfying weeknight dinner recipes in my rotation.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time (incl. marinating) | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
If you’re looking for another fast and flavorful option, my lemon chicken comes together just as quickly and always brightens up a weeknight.
How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken
Let’s walk through making this beautiful dish step-by-step. The aroma that fills your kitchen will transport you straight to a cozy restaurant!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and stir with a spoon or spatula until evenly coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to allow the chicken to marinate. This yogurt marinated roasted chicken is the secret to incredible tenderness.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs, until browned on all sides.
Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set aside. This step builds a wonderful fond in the pan that will flavor our sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the onion is softened and translucent.
Step 4: Build the Flavor Base
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the mixture is fragrant. This garlic ginger spiced tomato sauce base is the heart of the dish.
Step 5: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and darkens in color.
Step 6: Combine and Simmer
Return the browned chicken to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Stir in the heavy cream and sugar.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is rich and creamy. You’ll have the most incredible creamy tomato chicken curry.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve your Butter Chicken immediately over a savory turmeric cumin rice dish or with warm naan bread.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. Here’s how to make it perfectly your own.
- Flavor Swap: Out of garam masala? A blend of coriander, cardamom, and a pinch of cinnamon makes a lovely substitute.
- Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, you can substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream—it’s still wonderfully creamy and adds a subtle tropical note.
- Texture Fix: For the most tender simmered aromatic chicken thighs, don’t rush the marinating time. Letting them sit for a few hours, or even overnight, makes a world of difference.
- Storage Tip: This Butter Chicken stores beautifully. Let it cool completely and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen, making the leftovers something to look forward to! Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream. For another great make-ahead meal, try my chicken casserole or this hearty chicken taco soup.
Butter Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Equipment
- large skillet or Dutch oven
- Measuring spoons
- measuring cups
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and stir until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to marinate.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Transfer chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and darkens in color.
- Return the browned chicken to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Stir in the heavy cream and sugar. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is rich and creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve immediately over rice or with naan bread.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
Friends, I believe that good food should not only taste wonderful but also make you feel good. While our Butter Chicken is certainly a rich treat, it also offers some lovely nutritional benefits.
Every spoonful of this creamy tomato chicken curry provides a great source of protein from the yogurt marinated roasted chicken to keep you feeling satisfied longer. The warming spices like turmeric and ginger aren’t just delicious—they’ve been cherished for generations for their soothing properties.
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Protein | Supports muscle health and keeps you full |
| Turmeric | Contains curcumin, known for its antioxidant properties |
| Ginger & Garlic | Adds flavor while supporting digestion |
| Tomatoes | Provide lycopene and vitamin C |
For another protein-packed option that’s perfect for weeknight dinner recipes, try my simple bbq chicken breasts or these flavorful chicken burgers. If you’re curious about the history of butter chicken, you’ll discover how this beloved dish evolved from traditional Indian cooking.
A Lighter Version of Butter Chicken
Sometimes we crave those comforting flavors but want something a bit lighter on our stomachs. Over the years, I’ve perfected a version of this Easy Butter Chicken that’s just as satisfying but feels a little kinder to the waistline.
Here are my favorite swaps that keep all the flavor while cutting back on richness:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for extra protein and tang
- Swap half the butter for avocado or olive oil—you’ll still get that luxurious mouthfeel
- Increase the aromatic spices to compensate for reduced fat, making your garlic ginger spiced tomato sauce even more flavorful
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or cauliflower to bulk up the dish naturally
These simple changes create a wonderful balance that lets you enjoy this Butter Chicken recipe any night of the week without feeling weighed down. For more light and bright options, my cilantro lime chicken and this easy grilled chicken breast are always hits with my family.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I’ve had so many wonderful conversations with readers who adapt my recipes for their specific dietary needs, and it warms my heart to see how everyone can enjoy good food around the same table. Whether you’re sugar-conscious, diabetic-friendly, or simply watching your carbohydrate intake, here’s how you can make this dish work beautifully for you.
For those focusing on glycemic control, you can easily reduce the sugar in this Butter Chicken or swap it for a natural sweetener like stevia—the spices are so dominant that you won’t miss the sweetness. Another trick I love is serving smaller portions of the Creamy Butter Chicken alongside extra non-starchy vegetables or a fresh green salad to create a more balanced plate. Remember, the simmered aromatic chicken thighs already provide wonderful flavor without needing much adjustment, making this recipe naturally adaptable for various dietary preferences.
How to Serve Butter Chicken
I’ll never forget the first time I served this Butter Chicken to my husband’s family—the way the aromas filled our little Provençal kitchen and brought everyone together around the table. There’s something magical about sharing a steaming pot of this fragrant curry that feels like giving everyone a warm hug.
For the perfect meal, I love serving this Butter Chicken over a bed of fluffy basmati rice—my savory turmeric cumin rice dish complements the spices beautifully. Warm, buttery naan bread for dipping is non-negotiable in our house, and a simple cucumber salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try my chicken pasta as an alternative pairing, or for those cooler evenings, this comforting chicken soup makes the perfect starter.
Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon—it brightens up the whole dish and makes it feel truly restaurant-quality right at home.
Mistakes to Avoid
Friends, I’ve made my share of kitchen blunders over the years—like the time I accidentally used cayenne instead of paprika and had everyone reaching for water! Learning from mistakes is how we grow as cooks, so let me share a few common pitfalls when making this Butter Chicken and how to steer clear.
Rushing the marinade is a big one. If you don’t give the yogurt marinated roasted chicken enough time to soak up those flavors, the meat won’t be as tender or deeply spiced. I always plan ahead and let it rest at least a few hours, or even overnight.
Another misstep? Overcooking the tomato sauce. You want that garlic ginger spiced tomato sauce to simmer gently until rich and velvety—boiling it too hard can make it taste bitter and lose its beautiful color.
And please, don’t skip toasting the spices! It only takes a minute, but it awakens their aroma and makes your creamy tomato chicken curry taste like it’s from your favorite Indian restaurant. For more tips on traditional preparation methods, I always trust the experts.
Lastly, taste as you go. Spice levels vary, so adjust gently—you can always add more, but you can’t take it out. If you love getting flavors just right, my crispy garlic chicken and this lemon chicken are great next tries!
How to Store Butter Chicken
I’ll never forget my sweet neighbor, Marguerite, knocking on my door with a jar of her homemade Butter Chicken when I was under the weather. It warmed my soul for days—proof that good food shared is love multiplied.
This dish stores beautifully! Let it cool completely, then tuck it into an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3–4 days, and some say the flavors get even richer overnight.
You can also freeze it for up to three months. I like portioning it out so I can grab a single serving for a cozy lunch or double it for a last-minute dinner with friends. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring in a splash of cream or yogurt to bring back that velvety texture.
For more make-ahead inspiration, try my comforting chicken casserole or this set-and-forget slow cooker chicken—perfect for busy weeks.
Try This Butter Chicken Yourself
I hope this Butter Chicken recipe finds its way to your table soon, filling your kitchen with the same warm spices and happy memories it’s brought to mine. There’s nothing quite like gathering around a simmering pot, tearing off pieces of naan, and sharing stories with those you love.
Whether it’s a quiet weeknight or a festive Sunday supper, this Easy Butter Chicken is sure to become a cherished favorite. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—tag me on social or leave a comment so I can celebrate with you!
If you enjoyed this dish, you might also like my barbecue chicken, these zesty authentic Italian chicken cutlets, or this hearty chicken pasta bake. For soup lovers, my chicken taco soup is always a hit when the weather turns cool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients in butter chicken?
The key ingredients include chicken, yogurt, tomatoes, butter, cream, and a blend of spices like garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. For exact measurements, follow my Butter Chicken recipe above—it’s simpler than you might think!
What are common mistakes when making butter chicken?
Common mistakes include rushing the marinade, overheating the spices, or boiling the sauce too vigorously. Taking your time to layer flavors gently makes all the difference in achieving that restaurant-quality taste.
Why is butter chicken famous?
Butter chicken originated in Delhi and gained worldwide fame for its creamy, mildly spiced tomato gravy and tender meat. It’s a beloved introduction to Indian cuisine for many—comforting, rich, and incredibly satisfying.
Is butter chicken very spicy?
Not typically! Traditional Butter Chicken is mild and creamy, with warmth from spices rather than intense heat. You can always adjust the chili to suit your taste—it’s a very forgiving dish.
Cozy Chicken Dinners You’ll Make Again and Again
Nothing brings comfort quite like a hearty chicken dish—here are a few of my go-to recipes for busy nights and lazy Sundays.
- BBQ Chicken Breasts – Sweet, smoky, and perfect straight off the grill with a crisp salad.
- Chicken Burgers – Juicy, flavorful patties that beat takeout any day of the week.
- Cilantro Lime Chicken – Zesty and bright, great for tacos, bowls, or meal prep.
- Easy Grilled Chicken Breast – Simple, succulent, and always a crowd-pleaser.
