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Butter Chicken

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Just look at this gorgeous butter chicken! The way that rich, creamy orange sauce coats every tender piece of chicken is absolutely mouth-watering. You can practically smell the aromatic spices and that luxurious tomato-cream base through the screen. This isn't just any curry - it's restaurant-quality comfort food you can make right in your own kitchen. The fresh cilantro on top adds the perfect pop of color and freshness. Trust me, once you make this, you'll never want to order takeout again. Your kitchen will smell like heaven, and your family will think you're a culinary genius. This is the kind of recipe that creates food memories!

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Updated on Mon, 18 Aug 2025 21:28:04 GMT
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Creamy orange butter chicken curry in pan with herbs pin it
Creamy orange butter chicken curry in pan with herbs | lonerecipes.com

I first encountered butter chicken at a small Indian restaurant in college, and I was immediately hooked by its perfect balance of spices and creaminess. This recipe recreates that magical experience with tender chicken pieces swimming in a velvety tomato-cream sauce that's been perfumed with aromatic spices like garam masala and turmeric. The key is building layers of flavor - first by marinating the chicken, then creating a rich base with onions, garlic, and ginger, and finally bringing it all together with tomatoes and cream. What makes this dish special is how it manages to be both exotic and comforting at the same time. The sauce is rich but not heavy, spiced but not overwhelming, and the chicken stays incredibly tender throughout the cooking process.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely love about this butter chicken recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. There's something magical about watching the sauce come together - the way the cream swirls into the tomato base, creating these beautiful marbled patterns before it all blends into that signature orange color. The aroma that fills your kitchen is intoxicating, with layers of warm spices that make your mouth water before you even take a bite. It's one of those recipes that makes you feel like a real chef, even though it's surprisingly manageable for home cooks. The leftovers are even better the next day, which means you get to enjoy this incredible flavor twice. Plus, it's impressive enough for dinner parties but comforting enough for a cozy night in.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • Chicken thighs:Cut into bite-sized pieces and marinate with spices
  • Heavy cream:Stir in at the end for creamy richness
  • Crushed tomatoes:Simmer to create the base sauce
  • Onion:Sauté until golden for sweet flavor base
  • Fresh ginger:Grate finely for aromatic warmth
  • Garam masala:The signature spice blend that defines the dish

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the aromatics
Start by finely chopping your onion, mincing the garlic, and grating the fresh ginger. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. The fresh ginger is key here - it adds that authentic warmth and spice that makes this dish special.
Build the flavor base
Sauté the onions in butter until they're golden and sweet. This creates the foundation of flavor for your entire dish. When you add the garlic and ginger, your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing - this is when you know you're making something special.
Toast those spices
Adding the spices to the hot aromatics releases their essential oils and deepens their flavor. Don't skip this step - it only takes 30 seconds but makes a huge difference in the final taste. You'll smell the transformation immediately.
Create the creamy sauce
The magic happens when you slowly stir in the cream. Watch as the sauce transforms into that signature orange color. Keep the heat low and be patient - this is what separates restaurant-quality butter chicken from the ordinary.
Recipe picture pin it
Homemade butter chicken in creamy tomato sauce garnished perfectly | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I remember the first time I attempted butter chicken at home - I was so intimidated by all those spices! But once I started cooking and smelled that incredible aroma of garlic, ginger, and garam masala blooming in the butter, I knew I was onto something special. The sauce turned this beautiful orange color, and when I added the cream, it became this velvety masterpiece. Now it's become my go-to recipe when I want to treat myself to something really special. My neighbors always ask what smells so amazing when I'm making this - it's like aromatherapy for food lovers!

Perfect Pairings

This rich and creamy butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice to soak up every drop of that incredible sauce. Warm, buttery naan bread is essential for scooping up the curry, while a simple cucumber raita helps cool down the spices. For drinks, try a crisp lager beer or a glass of off-dry Riesling. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad adds a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.

Rich Indian butter chicken with tender pieces and cilantro pin it
Rich Indian butter chicken with tender pieces and cilantro | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs stay more tender and flavorful. If using breast meat, be careful not to overcook as it can become dry.

→ How spicy is this butter chicken recipe?

This recipe is mild to medium in heat. The cream helps mellow the spices, making it perfect for most palates. Adjust garam masala to taste.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut cream for heavy cream, though the flavor will be different. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a completely dairy-free version.

→ How long does butter chicken keep in the fridge?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, butter chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

This butter chicken recipe brings the authentic flavors of India right to your dinner table. The combination of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and that luxuriously creamy sauce creates a dish that's both comforting and exotic. It's perfect for those nights when you want something special but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. Serve it over basmati rice with some naan bread, and you've got a restaurant-quality meal that will impress everyone.

Butter Chicken

Rich, creamy Indian butter chicken with tender pieces in a velvety tomato-based sauce that's absolutely irresistible.

Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
35 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes
By: chris

Category: main-dishes

Difficulty: intermediate

Cuisine: Indian

Yield: 4 Servings (4 balls)

Dietary: Meat, Dairy

Ingredients

012 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
021 cup heavy cream
031 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
044 tablespoons butter
051 large onion, finely chopped
064 cloves garlic, minced
072 inches fresh ginger, grated
082 teaspoons garam masala
091 teaspoon turmeric
101 teaspoon ground cumin
111 teaspoon paprika
12Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 01

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 02

Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until golden and translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 03

Add the remaining garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and paprika to the pan. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until the spices are aromatic and well combined with the onion mixture.

Step 04

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and nearly cooked through.

Step 05

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken. The mixture should have a rich, deep color.

Step 06

Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 5 more minutes until the sauce is creamy and the chicken is fully cooked. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  1. For best flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours if you have time
  2. Use full-fat heavy cream for the richest, most authentic taste
  3. Don't let the cream boil or it may curdle - keep heat on low
  4. This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
  5. Adjust spice levels by adding more or less garam masala to your preference

Tools You'll Need

  • Large heavy-bottomed pan or skillet
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Sharp knife for chopping
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small bowls for ingredients

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (heavy cream, butter)
  • Possible gluten cross-contamination in spice blends
  • Tree nuts (if served with cashew garnish)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 485
  • Total Fat: 32 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
  • Protein: 38 g

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