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The moment you open your kitchen to the enticing scent of spiced chicken simmering in a velvety tomato cream sauce, there’s a sense of warmth and nostalgia that wraps around you like a soft embrace. This is what makes the Best Butter Chicken Recipe so special it captures the essence of comfort food while bringing a splash of vibrant Indian flavor directly to your table.

Imagine tender chunks of chicken, perfectly marinated and grilled, drenched in a luscious blend of cashew and tomato that dances with spices. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply satisfying a craving, this dish strikes the perfect balance between ease and indulgence, making it ideal for any occasion. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover just how effortlessly you can create this restaurant-quality classic in the comfort of your own home!

Why is the Best Butter Chicken Recipe so loved?

Irresistible Aroma: The aromas of garlic, ginger, and spices fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you can whip up an authentic dish without fuss.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it always impresses guests and family alike with its rich flavor.
Creamy Comfort: Smooth and velvety, every bite delivers a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes, making it truly comforting.
Versatile Meal: Pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even as a filling for wraps, adapting to any meal setting effortlessly.
Satisfying and Nutritious: Packed with protein and vibrant spices, it’s a wholesome dish that satisfies both cravings and your nutritional needs.

Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade

Chicken Breast – Main protein source, use boneless chunks for tenderness.
Yogurt – Acts as a marinade tenderizer; for non-dairy, opt for coconut yogurt.
Turmeric Powder – It adds warm color and an earthy flavor; curry powder can be replaced for a different taste.
Kashmiri Chili Powder – Gives the dish its signature bright color and mild heat; substitute with paprika for less spice.
Garam Masala – This spice blend offers depth of flavor; no substitutions recommended for authenticity.
Ginger-Garlic Paste – Enhances aroma and flavor; use fresh minced ginger and garlic if preferred.
Ghee or Melted Butter – Adds richness to the marinade; substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.

For the Sauce

Butter – Base for the sauce; can reduce for a lighter dish.
Raw Cashews – Create a smooth, creamy base for the sauce; silken tofu can be used for a nut-free alternative.
Tomato Puree – Provides acidity and sweetness; fresh blended tomatoes can be used if preferred.
Honey – Enhances sweetness and balances acidity; can be reduced or replaced with maple syrup for a vegan option.
Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) – Adds a distinct flavor; can be skipped but diminishes authenticity.
Cream – Enriches the sauce; optional to omit for a lighter dish.

This Best Butter Chicken Recipe is a beautiful blend of wholesome ingredients that come together to create comfort in every bite. Enjoy the cooking process as much as the delicious outcome!

How to Make Butter Chicken

Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken breast with yogurt, turmeric powder, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, ghee, and a pinch of salt. Score the chicken to help the marinade penetrate, then refrigerate for 30-40 minutes or overnight for extra flavor.
Grill Chicken: Skewer the marinated chicken and grill it on a barbecue or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat until charred and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Set aside to rest.
Prepare Cashew Paste: In a blender, add soaked cashews and a splash of water. Blend until smooth and creamy, resembling a thick paste that’s ready to enrich your sauce.
Cook Sauce: In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the remaining ginger-garlic paste with turmeric and Kashmiri chili powder until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the tomato puree, leftover marinade, kasuri methi, and garam masala, cooking for 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the cashew paste and honey, blending everything well. Season with salt, then simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finish Dish: Add the grilled chicken pieces into the sauce, stir gently, and simmer for an additional 5-6 minutes with a tablespoon of cream for that luxurious finish. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful aroma!

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt for an extra touch of creaminess.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Butter Chicken?

Creating a complete meal around this rich and creamy delight makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Warm Naan: Soft, fluffy naan is perfect for scooping up the buttery sauce, making each mouthful feel indulgent.
Basmati Rice: The light, aromatic rice acts as a beautiful canvas, soaking up the vibrant flavors of the butter chicken. Pairing these two is like a match made in culinary heaven.
Green Salad: A crisp cucumber and tomato salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dish, cutting through the creaminess with its crunch.
Mint Chutney: This cooling condiment offers a burst of freshness and minty brightness, elevating each bite of chicken to new heights. It’s a delightful addition that enhances the entire meal experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies add color and nutrition, complementing the dish’s richness while introducing a satisfying texture.
Masala Chai: To round out the meal, serve a steaming cup of spiced tea; it warms the soul and leaves you feeling serene.
Mango Lassi: This creamy, sweet yogurt drink offers a delicious balance to the dish’s spices and is perfect for cooling your palate.

How to Store and Freeze Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the creamy texture and rich flavors while keeping it fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze butter chicken in a labeled airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat butter chicken on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Add a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess.
Avoid Overcooling: Never leave butter chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses. Always refrigerate promptly!

Butter Chicken Serving Suggestions

This delightful Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan is the perfect vehicle for scooping up that creamy sauce, making every bite a comforting delight. Whether you opt for garlic naan or plain, it’s a classic pairing you can’t go wrong with.
Basmati Rice: The fragrance of basmati rice complements the spices in Butter Chicken beautifully, soaking up the delicious sauce for a satisfying meal. Fluff it up with a sprinkle of cilantro for added flavor.
Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side, raita contrasts the spiciness of the chicken beautifully. You can whip up a quick cucumber raita for a refreshing complement to this hearty dish.
Vegetable Pakoras: Serve some crispy vegetable pakoras on the side for a crunchy texture that balances the smoothness of the Butter Chicken. Their savory goodness makes for a perfect starter!
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables can add nutrition and color to your plate. They not only brighten up the meal aesthetically but also make it a wholesome experience.
Side Salad: A light side salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich Butter Chicken, making it a well-rounded meal.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to suit your gathering or family dinner, transforming each meal into a delightful culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for the Best Butter Chicken Recipe

Mind the Marinade: Ensure the chicken is well scored to allow the marinade to penetrate, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
Perfect Grilling: If using the oven, the broiler is your friend—preheat for more even cooking and delicious charred flavor.
Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on cooking time for the sauce; overcooking can dull vibrant colors and fresh flavors.
Fresh Spices Matter: Always choose fresh spices for the most robust taste; old spices can lead to a bland dish, defeating the best butter chicken recipe.
Storage Savvy: Leftovers are delicious! Store the butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, and gently reheat to maintain its creamy texture.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Butter Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness anytime! You can marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices up to 24 hours in advance, which not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat beautifully. Additionally, the creamy cashew paste can be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the chicken and combine it with the prepared sauce; simmer for about 5-6 minutes to meld the flavors. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality Butter Chicken with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Authentic Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for chicken breast that is pink and firm without any dark spots. Fresh spices should have strong aromas, while yogurt should be smooth and creamy without any lumps. For the tomato puree, choose vibrant, deep red tomatoes if you’re using fresh, ensuring they are free from blemishes.

How should I store leftover Butter Chicken?
Very! Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled down before sealing. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.

Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze your butter chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to a labeled airtight container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or water if necessary to restore creaminess.

What if my Butter Chicken sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of water, chicken broth, or a bit more cream while stirring over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. This will bring everything back together beautifully without sacrificing flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations with Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can swap the chicken for paneer for a vegetarian version, or consider using silken tofu if you’re looking for a vegan alternative. Additionally, for nut allergies, substitute the cashews with blended pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a creamy texture without the nuts.

How long can I keep Butter Chicken at room temperature?
Very! It’s essential to avoid leaving butter chicken at room temperature for over 2 hours to protect against foodborne illnesses. If it’s been out too long, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it to keep your meals safe and delicious.