If you’ve always dreamed of bringing the magic of Indian restaurant cuisine Main Course. Creamy, deeply spiced, and packed with layers of flavor, it’s the kind of dish that turns weeknights into celebrations and impresses everyone who tastes it. Tender chicken pieces are marinated, cooked to perfection, and then bathed in a silky tomato-butter sauce—this classic never fails to delight, especially when you want a comforting, show-stopping meal at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be daunted by the list—each ingredient in this Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe plays a starring role either in tenderizing the chicken, deepening the spice profile, or giving the sauce its signature richness. Assembling everything before you start makes the whole process breezy and even more enjoyable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 ½ pounds): Juicy thighs soak up the marinade beautifully, staying tender in the final dish.
- Plain yogurt (1 cup): Acts as both a marinade base and a tenderizer, giving the chicken that irresistible texture.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds brightness, keeps everything fresh, and helps the spices penetrate the meat.
- Ginger paste (2 tablespoons, divided): Offers a warm, zesty kick to both the marinade and the sauce.
- Garlic paste (2 tablespoons, divided): Essential for true depth and aromatic allure in every bite.
- Ground cumin (2 ½ teaspoons, divided): Adds earthy, smoky notes to both the chicken and sauce.
- Ground coriander (2 teaspoons, divided): For a citrusy, floral flavor that brightens the sauce.
- Garam masala (2 teaspoons, divided): The backbone spice blend that gives butter chicken its unique warm spice signature.
- Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Lends color and an undercurrent of earthiness to the marinade.
- Chili powder (1 ½ teaspoons, divided): Regulate to your heat preference; it keeps the sauce lively and satisfying.
- Salt (to taste): Always season to taste to let those gorgeous flavors shine.
- Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): The signature ingredient for a rich and luxurious sauce—don’t skip!
- Oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the butter from burning during the sauté step.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Builds a sweet base as it browns and melds with the spices.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives beautiful color and a touch of mild smokiness.
- Crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz can): The body of your sauce, providing tang and beautiful consistency.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Adds extra richness and depth to the tomato base.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): A pinch balances the acidity of tomatoes for a smoother finish.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): This is what makes the dish velvety and utterly comforting.
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness right at the end—don’t forget it!
How to Make Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and a generous pinch of salt in a large bowl. Toss in your chicken thigh pieces, making sure every piece is coated in this glorious marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight if you can. This step gives you unbelievably juicy and flavorful chicken that’s the heart of any Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Spices
In your largest, heaviest skillet or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. When it’s sizzling, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 6 to 8 minutes until soft and just turning golden. Stir in the rest of the ginger and garlic paste, letting them cook for a minute so their aromas bloom. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder, and garam masala, and cook for an extra 30 seconds. This step makes your kitchen smell absolutely magnificent—trust the process!
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the tomato paste, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Let this mixture gently simmer for around 10 minutes, so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens up attractively. If your tomatoes are a bit tart, stir in the optional sugar for a perfectly balanced sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
While your sauce simmers, take out that marinated chicken and cook it in a separate skillet or under your broiler until just cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes. Grilling for a bit of smokiness works, too! Try not to overcook—the chicken will finish in the sauce later, so keep it tender.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Finish
Add your just-cooked chicken pieces (and all their gorgeous juices) into the tomato sauce. Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in the heavy cream. Let everything simmer together for another 8 to 10 minutes, so the sauce thickens and the flavors meld into that signature creamy hug. For the pièce de résistance, swirl in the final 2 tablespoons of butter, and watch the sauce turn glossy and irresistible. Your Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to wow!
How to Serve Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To finish with style, scatter freshly chopped cilantro over the top—it adds not only a vibrant green color but also another layer of fresh flavor that brings the whole dish to life. You can even drizzle on a little extra cream for those restaurant-style swirls before serving your Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe.
Side Dishes
The absolute best companions for butter chicken? Pillowy naan bread (store-bought or homemade), fluffy basmati rice, or roti to scoop up every last bit of sauce. Add a cooling cucumber raita or a classic Indian salad on the side, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable Indian feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve your Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe in a polished serving dish, topped with a crown of extra cilantro and a touch of sliced chilies for heat. I also love filling small bowls with the curry and placing them atop a wooden board surrounded by mini naan for a casual, help-yourself dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Butter chicken tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen overnight. Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently to maintain that dreamy creaminess!
Freezing
Your Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Always reheat butter chicken on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Stir frequently to make sure the sauce stays silky, and heat just until piping hot. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from separating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and authentic texture, chicken breast will work just fine. Just keep an eye on cook time to avoid dryness—marinating is especially important here.
Is the Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe spicy?
This version of Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe leans more creamy than fiery. The chili powder does add a gentle heat, but you can always scale it up or down to your personal preference. Add fresh chilies for an extra kick!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can! Swap yogurt and cream for coconut milk or non-dairy yogurt and cream alternatives. Use oil or plant-based butter, and you’ll still get a luscious, spiced sauce perfect for dairy-free diets.
What’s the best way to marinate the chicken?
I recommend marinating in a glass or ceramic bowl (not metal) and covering well. Let those spices work their magic for at least 2 hours, but overnight truly transforms the chicken in this Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply scale up the ingredients and use a larger pot or skillet. The technique stays the same, just allow a bit more simmering time to ensure a rich, thick sauce and tender chicken throughout.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe brings as much joy and flavor to your table as it has to mine! Nothing matches the warmth of a homemade curry made with care and shared with the people you love. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you start craving it again and again!
Print
Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe, a creamy and aromatic dish that is a staple in Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
Main Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter (for finishing)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Main Marinade: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate refrigerated for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sauté onions in oil and butter until soft. Add garlic paste, ginger paste, spices, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and simmer. Cook marinated chicken separately, then add to the sauce.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in cream, simmer until chicken is tender, then finish with butter. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.
Notes
- For extra flavor, grill the chicken before adding to the sauce.
- Thighs are preferred for juiciness and authentic taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
