Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken Recipe

6 servings
Serve this butter chicken recipe with additional fresh cilantro, rice, and naan bread.

Ingredients

  • bone-in chicken thighs and/or drumsticks

    skinned

    6
  • whole-milk plain Greek yogurt
    ½ c
  • ground coriander
    1 tbsp
  • ground cumin
    1 tbsp
  • lemon juice
    1 tbsp
  • ground turmeric
    1 tsp
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • cayenne
    ½ tsp
  • onion
    1 c
  • vegetable oil
    2 tbsp
  • garlic
    3 clove
  • fresh ginger
    1 tbsp
  • reduced-sodium chicken broth
    ½ c
  • tomato paste
    2 tbsp
  • whipping cream
    ¾ c
  • butter

    cut up

    2 tbsp
  • fresh cilantro
    2 tbsp
  • garam masala
    2 tsp
  • Cooked basmati rice
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Naan

Directions

Marinade

  1. 1

    In a large bowl whisk together the greek yogurt, coriander, cumin, lemon juice, turmeric, salt, and cayenne. Add the chicken pieces, turning to coat well with the marinade. Cover; marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour or overnight.

Sauce

  1. 1

    In a 12-inch skillet, cook the onion in hot oil over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in the garlic and ginger. Add the chicken to skillet, reserving any marinade that remains in the bowl. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes or until browned, turning once (marinade may stick to skillet). Add any remaining marinade from the bowl to the skillet with chicken.

  2. 2

    In a small bowl, whisk together the broth and tomato paste until smooth. Add to the skillet with the chicken along with whipping cream. Bring just to boiling, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from bottom of skillet; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the chicken is done (175°F), stirring occasionally.

  3. 3

    Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, reserving the sauce in the skillet. Add butter, cilantro, and garam masala to sauce. Whisk until the butter is melted and sauce is well-combined. Serve chicken with sauce and (if using) basmati rice, additional cilantro, and naan.

Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken Recipe

110 min6 servings415 cal

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About this Recipe

Indulge in Our Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Experience the rich and comforting flavors of a classic Indian dish right in your own kitchen with our delicious Butter Chicken recipe. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together tender, marinated chicken in a luscious, spiced tomato and butter sauce that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family meal. Forget takeout – once you taste this homemade butter chicken, you'll be making it again and again!

What makes our Butter Chicken truly special? We start with bone-in chicken thighs and/or drumsticks, skin removed, which are marinated in a vibrant blend of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and aromatic spices like ground coriander, cumin, and turmeric. This marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor and helps keep it incredibly tender as it cooks. The heart of this creamy chicken curry lies in its rich sauce, combining sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh ginger with tomato paste, chicken broth, and a generous swirl of whipping cream and butter. The finishing touch of garam masala and fresh cilantro elevates the dish to perfection.

Tips for the Best Butter Chicken

  • Marination is Key: Don't skip the marination step! Letting the chicken sit in the yogurt and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) significantly enhances the flavor and tenderness.
  • Aromatic Base: Take your time to properly sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. This builds the foundational flavor of your sauce.
  • Balance the Heat: Our recipe calls for 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cayenne. Adjust this to your preference for a milder or spicier butter chicken curry.

Serve this authentic-tasting Butter Chicken with fluffy basmati rice to soak up every drop of that incredible sauce, and warm naan bread for scooping. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a final flourish and a burst of freshness. It’s a complete and satisfying meal that promises to become a family favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions