Tender cubes of marinated chicken are seared in ghee and simmered in a spiced tomato and yoghurt base to create this classic butter chicken. The combination of warming spices like turmeric, paprika, and garam masala balanced with thickened cream results in a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every piece of meat.
This method relies on a two-hour marination period, which allows the yoghurt and spices to penetrate deep into the chicken, ensuring it remains succulent throughout the cooking process. Sautéing onions alongside fresh aromatics provides a subtle sweetness that rounds out the acidity of the canned tomatoes.
Serving this meal alongside warm naan or fluffy basmati rice makes for a straightforward weeknight dinner that feels like a takeaway favorite made at home. It is a reliable, manageable dish for those who appreciate a balance of spice and creaminess without needing a lengthy ingredient list.
Read Full StoryIf you find yourself with extra sauce after preparing this classic dish, consider tossing it into a fragrant butter chicken biryani for a satisfying second meal. For those hectic weeknights when you need a quick dinner solution, wrapping the leftovers inside a warm, soft pita bread offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy those bold flavors on the go.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: Used as the primary protein, cut into cubes and marinated for tenderness.
- Greek yoghurt: Provides a tangy base for the marinade and adds creaminess to the sauce.
- Garam masala: Adds the essential aromatic spice blend that defines the butter chicken profile.
- Canned tomatoes: Creates the acidic, rich foundation for the curry sauce.
- Thickened cream: Blended into the sauce to achieve the signature silky, velvety consistency.
- Ghee: Used for frying the chicken and onions to provide a rich, nutty flavor.
More Ways to Master Chicken and Butter
- Air-fried butter chicken: This method provides a lighter, crispier texture while maintaining the rich, spiced profile of traditional butter chicken.
- Garlic and thyme butter roast chicken: If you enjoy the marriage of butter and poultry, this aromatic roast makes for an impressive centerpiece.
- Fried chicken in butter sweet soy sauce: This version leans into savory, caramelized notes for a distinct change of pace from standard curry-based sauces.
Curated by Aprilia Wanson in Austin, TX — I research and organize easy recipes so you can cook with what you have. More about how I create content →