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Authentic Indian Butter Chicken

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A rich and creamy tomato-based curry with tender, spiced chicken, infused with aromatic Indian flavors—perfect with naan or basmati rice.

Ingredients

Units Scale
For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 lb boneless chicken (thighs or breast), cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
For the Butter Sauce:

 

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • In a bowl, mix the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, garlic, and ginger. Marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
  • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
  • In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder, cooking until fragrant.
  • Pour in the tomato puree and let simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
  • Stir in heavy cream and sugar, then return the cooked chicken to the pan. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

 

  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan or basmati rice.

Notes

  • For extra smoky flavor, grill or broil the marinated chicken before adding to the sauce.
  • Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

 

  • Adjust chili powder to control spice levels.