When it comes to Indian cuisine, nothing beats the rich, creamy taste of Butter Chicken. This Butter Chicken Recipe is a favorite not just in India but around the world. Its velvety gravy, smoky chicken, and perfectly balanced spices make it a dish everyone loves. The best part? You can recreate restaurant-style butter chicken at home with the right steps and essential cookware.
This Butter Chicken Recipe combines the creaminess of butter and cream, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the warmth of aromatic spices. It is mildly spiced, slightly sweet, and deeply flavorful. Served with naan or basmati rice, it makes for a comforting meal on any occasion. Many people assume that making restaurant-style butter chicken at home is difficult, but with proper marination, slow-cooked gravy, and the right cookware, it’s surprisingly simple.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or special guests, this step-by-step Butter Chicken Recipe will help you prepare rich, flavorful, and tender chicken every time.
Ingredients for Butter Chicken Recipe
For Gravy:
3 tbsp butter
2 tbsp oil
2 medium onions (finely chopped)
3–4 tomatoes (pureed)
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1–2 green chilies (optional)
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tbsp honey or sugar
1 cup fresh cream
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
For Chicken Marinade:
500 g boneless chicken (cut into cubes)
½ cup yogurt (curd)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Add the chicken pieces, coat them evenly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Why this step matters:
Yogurt softens the chicken for juiciness.
Lemon juice adds freshness and helps spices penetrate deeper.
Overnight marination (8–10 hours) brings the best flavor.
Recommended Mixing Bowl Set for Marination: Check it here
Airtight Containers to Store Marinated Chicken: See options here
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet. Sear the marinated chicken on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Do not cook fully as the chicken will finish cooking in the gravy. Set aside.
Why this step matters:
Searing locks in moisture and adds a smoky, restaurant-style flavor.
Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
Best Non-Stick Skillets for Perfect Searing: Check here
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
In a heavy-bottom kadhai or Dutch oven, melt butter with a little oil. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Mix in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies until the raw aroma disappears. Add tomato puree, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Cook slowly until oil separates from the masala.
Why this step matters:
Slow cooking onions and tomatoes gives sweetness and depth.
Blending ensures the creamy, restaurant-style consistency that butter chicken is famous for.
Heavy Bottom Kadhai for Perfect Curry Cooking: See options here
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the blended gravy to the pan. Add seared chicken pieces, honey, and garam masala. Mix well and pour in fresh cream. Simmer gently on low heat for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Why this step matters:
Cream balances spices and adds richness.
Honey adds a mild sweetness that complements the tangy tomato base.
Heavy-Bottom Pan for Slow Cooking: Explore here
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off heat and let the curry rest for a few minutes. Garnish with cream swirls, a knob of butter, and chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Why this step matters:
Resting allows flavors to meld.
Garnishing makes the dish visually appealing.
Stylish Serving Bowls for Perfect Plating: See here
Why Cookware Matters for Butter Chicken Recipe
The right cookware can elevate your Butter Chicken Recipe from good to restaurant-quality. A non-stick skillet helps sear chicken without sticking. A Dutch oven or heavy-bottom kadhai ensures even heat and prevents burning of the gravy. A hand blender creates that velvety, smooth texture. Good serving bowls enhance presentation.
Investing in quality cookware not only makes cooking easier but also improves flavor, consistency, and the overall experience of making Butter Chicken Recipe at home.
Tips for the Best Butter Chicken Recipe
Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
Use ripe tomatoes for natural sweetness.
Don’t skip butter; it gives the dish its signature taste.
Cook the gravy slowly to deepen flavors.
Always use heavy-bottom cookware for even heat distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Butter Chicken Recipe pairs perfectly with:
Soft garlic naan or butter roti.
Jeera rice or plain basmati rice.
A side of fresh salad or pickled onions.
FAQs About Butter Chicken Recipe
Q1: Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes, cashew paste or coconut milk can be used as a lighter alternative.
Q2: What’s the difference between Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala?
Butter Chicken is creamier and slightly sweet, while Chicken Tikka Masala is spicier and more robust.
Q3: Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but boneless chicken cooks faster and absorbs flavors better.
Q4: How can I make it spicier?
Add extra green chilies or red chili powder to taste.
Q5: Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to two months and reheat gently.
Q6: Which cookware is best for Butter Chicken Recipe?
A Dutch oven or heavy-bottom kadhai is ideal for slow cooking. A non-stick skillet is perfect for searing chicken.
Q7: Can I use store-bought tomato puree?
Yes, but fresh tomatoes give a richer, fresher tast
Final Thoughts
The Butter Chicken Recipe is more than a dish; it is a comforting, flavor-packed meal. With this step-by-step guide and the right cookware, you can recreate a restaurant-style experience at home.
For more tips on cookware and Indian recipes, check out this guide: Tandoori Chicken Tikka with Cookware Guide.
Nice Reciepe…
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thank you for sharing
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