Irresistible Butter Chicken Recipe: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes

Name: Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 4 tbsp butter; 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 2 tsp garam masala; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

October 8, 2025

Updated:

October 8, 2025

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Butter chicken is like a warm hug on a plate, with its creamy tomato sauce enveloping tender chicken pieces that practically melt in your mouth. The tantalizing mix of spices wafts through the air, coaxing you to take just one more bite. Who wouldn’t want to dive into this bowl of comfort food goodness?

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re cozy at home, perhaps with a favorite movie playing in the background. You whip up this butter chicken recipe, and suddenly, your kitchen transforms into an aromatic haven that even your neighbors might envy. It’s the perfect dish for family gatherings or a lazy weekend dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner stress-free

The harmonious blend of spices creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress anyone
Its rich colors make it visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself

Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, naan, or even veggies!

I remember the first time I made this butter chicken recipe; my friends devoured it like they hadn’t eaten in days. Their rave reviews and happy faces made all the effort worth it!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose three or four breasts based on how many hungry mouths you plan to feed.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for a punchy flavor that makes your dish sing.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and aroma; it’s like an instant hug for your taste buds.

Butter: A generous amount is essential for richness; don’t skimp on this heavenly ingredient.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for robust flavor; crush them yourself for extra texture.
Cream: Heavy cream gives that luxurious finish; it’s what dreams are made of!

Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): These spices bring depth; don’t skip them unless you enjoy bland food.
Salt & Pepper: Simple but necessary to enhance all those glorious flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering everything you need—chop the garlic and ginger finely. Keep those spices ready because once you start cooking, there’s no turning back!

Sauté the Aromatics: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it bubbles. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant and golden brown—about 2 minutes of pure bliss.

Add Chicken Pieces: Toss in your chicken breasts. Sear them until they are golden brown on all sides—around 5-7 minutes should do the trick—creating a fantastic base for flavors.

Create the Sauce: Pour in those canned tomatoes and add all the spices along with salt and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer until thickened—about 15 minutes while savoring that intoxicating aroma.

Add Cream: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until combined. Let simmer for another 5 minutes to allow all those flavors to mingle beautifully.

Serve It Up: Serve your butter chicken with fluffy rice or warm naan. Get ready for some serious compliments as everyone digs in!

Now you’re ready to impress friends and family with your newfound culinary skills! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite of this delectable dish that warms both hearts and bellies alike!

You Must Know

This butter chicken recipe creates a rich, creamy dish that warms the soul
The blend of spices fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma, making it irresistible

Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal that your family will adore

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first in a hot pan to lock in flavor, then simmer it in the sauce for maximum tenderness and taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version. Add cashews or raisins for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For ultimate flavor, marinate the chicken overnight to absorb all those spices

Keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning the sauce
Use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess without compromising taste

Cooking this butter chicken recipe reminded me of my first dinner party; friends raved about it and asked for seconds, making me feel like a culinary rockstar.

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best chicken to use for butter chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness than breasts.

Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead; flavors deepen and improve overnight.

How can I adjust spice levels in this butter chicken recipe?

Start with less chili powder and add more gradually until desired heat is achieved.

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