Butter Chicken Recipe – Creamy Indian Chicken Curry

This Butter Chicken recipe is a popular Indian dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy tomato-based gravy. Butter, cream and aromatic spices give the curry its rich flavour, making it a favourite for family meals and special occasions.

Although butter chicken is often ordered at restaurants, you can prepare a delicious version at home with everyday ingredients. Serve it with naan, roti or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Butter Chicken

For the chicken marinade

• 500 g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1/2 cup plain yoghurt

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder, or to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt to taste

For the gravy

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped

• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

• 10–12 cashews

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder, or to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi, crushed

• 3–4 tablespoons fresh cream

• Water as needed

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander for garnish, optional

How to Make Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

First, combine the yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, chilli powder, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and mix until evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For food safety, keep the chicken refrigerated while it marinates.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Next, heat a little oil in a pan. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, turning the pieces as needed. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate.

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) before serving.

Step 3: Prepare the tomato gravy

In the same pan, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened. Then add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté briefly.

Add the tomatoes, cashews, coriander powder, cumin powder, chilli powder and a little salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the mixture becomes thick.

Allow it to cool slightly, then blend until smooth. Take care when blending hot ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the gravy

Return the blended gravy to the pan and simmer over low to medium heat. Add a little water if it is too thick. Stir occasionally so the sauce does not stick to the bottom.

Step 5: Add the chicken

Now add the cooked chicken to the gravy. Mix gently and simmer for about 5–8 minutes so the flavours combine. Make sure the chicken remains fully cooked.

Step 6: Finish with cream and kasuri methi

Lower the heat and stir in the cream, garam masala and crushed kasuri methi. Simmer briefly, then taste and adjust the seasoning. Avoid boiling the gravy vigorously after adding the cream.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Finally, garnish with fresh coriander or a small swirl of cream if desired. Serve hot with naan, roti, paratha or steamed rice.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes, plus marinating time

• Cooking Time: 30–40 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour, plus marinating time

• Servings: 4

• Difficulty: Medium

• Category: Dinner

• Cuisine: Indian

Times are estimates and vary depending on the equipment and cooking method.

Tips for Delicious Butter Chicken

• Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for better flavour.

• Cook the chicken in batches to help it brown evenly.

• Blend the gravy thoroughly for a smooth texture.

• Adjust the chilli powder to suit your preferred spice level.

• Add the cream near the end and keep the heat low.

• Use a food thermometer to confirm that the chicken is fully cooked.

What to Serve with Butter Chicken

Butter chicken pairs beautifully with naan, roti, paratha, jeera rice or plain steamed rice.

For a vegetarian option, try our Paneer Butter Masala Recipe. Both dishes are popular choices for a comforting Indian dinner.

Conclusion

This homemade Butter Chicken recipe brings together tender chicken, a smooth tomato gravy and warming Indian spices. Follow the steps carefully for a creamy, flavourful curry to enjoy with your favourite bread or rice. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and serve it fresh for the best results.