The first time the fragrant spices danced in my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon something extraordinary. That’s how my journey with Creamy Butter Chicken began—an indulgent dish that transforms any meal into a celebration. Picture tender chicken lovingly coated in a luscious, velvety tomato sauce, infused with the warmth of garam masala and a hint of cinnamon, all beckoning you to dig in.
As winter nights draw near, this comforting recipe becomes my go-to for cozy gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. But here’s the beauty of this dish: its versatility. Whether you prefer succulent chicken, hearty paneer, or even creamy tofu, everyone can savor this delight. With options for dairy-free and nut-free variations, Creamy Butter Chicken appeals to every palate. So, let’s dive into this culinary embrace and elevate our dinner game together!
Why is Creamy Butter Chicken a must-try?
Comforting Flavors: Each bite is a rich explosion of spices that warms the soul, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, dinner can be ready in under an hour, freeing up your time for what truly matters.
Customizable Options: Choose between chicken, paneer, or tofu for a dish that caters to everyone’s dietary needs and preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish never fails to impress guests, whether served at a dinner party or a casual family meal.
For even more options, check out our variation ideas to suit everyone’s taste!
Irresistible Texture: The creamy sauce envelops the protein beautifully, creating a luscious experience that leaves you craving more.
Creamy Butter Chicken Ingredients
Get ready to create a blissful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with these essential ingredients!
For the Marinade
- Greek yogurt – 1 cup; this ingredient tenderizes the chicken for a juicy bite, but you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk for a tangy kick.
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons; it adds needed acidity to balance the creamy sauce, with no substitutions necessary.
- Ground turmeric – 1 teaspoon; gives warmth and a beautiful hue, but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon; adds a subtle earthiness; coriander can replace it if desired.
- Garam masala – 1 tablespoon; this spice blend elevates the flavors of the dish; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
For the Chicken
- Chicken thighs (on the bone) – 2 pounds; they absorb the sauce fabulously and yield juicy results; boneless breasts can be used, but may be less juicy.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons; this adds richness, or you can use ghee for enhanced authenticity.
- Neutral oil (vegetable or canola) – 1 tablespoon; prevents burning during cooking, optional if using ghee.
- Yellow onion – 1 large; forms the aromatic base for the sauce; shallots can also be a great substitute.
- Garlic (minced) – 4 cloves; enhances depth and aroma, with fresh garlic being the preferred option.
- Fresh ginger (grated/diced) – 1 tablespoon; introduces a fresh zing; if in a pinch, ground ginger works too.
- Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon; contributes a crunchy texture; you can omit or use ground cumin instead for ease.
- Cinnamon stick – 1 stick; it adds warm flavor; a dash of ground cinnamon can be a convenient alternative.
- Diced tomatoes – 2 cups; they impart sweetness and acidity; canned tomatoes can work well too.
- Whole red chiles – 2; they add heat; adjust or omit based on your preferred spice level.
- Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances overall flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Chicken stock – 1 cup; deepens the flavor; low-sodium versions are perfect for keeping control over saltiness.
- Cream – 1 cup; creates the luxurious creamy finish; substitute with coconut milk for a delightful dairy-free experience.
- Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons; intensifies tomato flavor, making it a must for the best taste!
- Ground almonds (optional) – 1/4 cup; adds richness; cashews make for a lovely substitute.
- Fresh cilantro leaves – 1/4 cup; brightens the dish as a final garnish; completely optional.
With this lineup of ingredients, you’re set to create a soul-warming Creamy Butter Chicken that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ground turmeric, ground cumin, and garam masala. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for the best tenderness.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and lightly browned, releasing those delicious aromatic flavors.
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Add Flavors: Stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then add in the cinnamon stick, 2 cups of diced tomatoes, 2 whole red chiles, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken (with all the marinade) to the pan and sear for 5 minutes. Pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
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Finish Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of cream and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste into the sauce, simmering for another 10-15 minutes. This will thicken the sauce and add that signature creamy finish.
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Garnish & Serve: Remove the cinnamon stick and sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top for a vibrant touch. Serve this luscious Creamy Butter Chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal.
Optional: Drizzle some additional cream on top for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Butter Chicken
- Maximize Flavor: Marinate the chicken overnight for deep flavor and tender texture. Don’t rush this critical step!
- Onion Caramelization: Allow the onions to brown well to enhance the sauce’s richness; patience pays off with a flavorful foundation.
- Smooth Sauce: Scrape the pan while cooking to incorporate the fond, ensuring a velvety Creamy Butter Chicken sauce without lumps.
- Spice Control: Adjust the number of red chiles and garam masala according to your spice tolerance—this dish can be tailored to suit all palates.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock to reach your desired consistency without sacrificing flavor.
What to Serve with Creamy Butter Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that balance the richness of this comforting dish.
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Fluffy Basmati Rice: The perfect neutral base to soak up the creamy sauce, enhancing every bite of the Butter Chicken.
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Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is ideal for scooping up the luscious sauce, adding a satisfying texture to each mouthful.
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Crispy Papadums: These crunchy, savory wafers provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, adding a fun and appetizing crunch alongside your meal.
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Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt sauce balances the spices of the Butter Chicken, creating a refreshingly creamy contrast on the palate.
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Tandoori Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and charred, these veggies offer a smoky flavor that complements the richness of the chicken beautifully while adding vibrant color to your plate.
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Mint Chutney: A vibrant, zesty condiment that cuts through the creaminess, mint chutney enhances the overall flavor experience with a fresh herbaceous note.
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Chilled Mango Lassi: This sweet, creamy drink provides a refreshing respite from the warming spices, making it a delightful accompaniment with each bite.
With these suggestions, each meal becomes an exciting and flavorful adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Butter Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain creaminess.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick meal.
- Reheating: To enjoy your Creamy Butter Chicken at its best, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Storage Tips: Cool the dish completely before refrigerating or freezing, ensuring optimal quality and safety.
Creamy Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own by trying out these tasty adaptations!
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a luscious meat-free delight. You’ll enjoy the equally creamy texture that brings great flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the cream for coconut milk to create a rich, dairy-free version that’s just as comforting. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
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Nut-Free: Simply omit the ground almonds for a nut-free option. The dish will still maintain its rich texture and flavor without missing a beat.
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Flavorful Twist: Replace ground cumin with smoked paprika for an intriguing depth. This variation will introduce a slight smokiness that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
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Mild Alternative: For a gentler flavor, swap garam masala with curry powder. It’s a great way to make the dish accessible for spice-averse diners.
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Spicy Kick: Add more whole red chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a fiery twist. Perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to garnish for an extra burst of freshness and vibrant color.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of orange or lime juice to the sauce during the cooking process for a surprising citrus note that brightens up the dish.
These variations ensure your Creamy Butter Chicken is a dish everyone can enjoy, regardless of diet or spice preference!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Butter Chicken delights are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prepare components ahead of time! You can marinate the chicken in the yogurt and spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just ensure it’s tightly covered in the refrigerator to lock in that incredible flavor and tenderness. Additionally, the sauce can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove, then add the marinated chicken and cook as instructed. This method not only saves you time on the day of serving but also ensures all those comforting flavors are just as delicious as when made fresh!
Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe tomatoes for the sauce?
Absolutely! Look for tomatoes that are vibrant in color, plump, and feel firm yet slightly yielding to the touch. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as they may not be as fresh. If you can find them, vine-ripened tomatoes will add the sweetest flavor to your Creamy Butter Chicken.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can refrigerate leftover Creamy Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to keep it creamy!
Can I freeze Creamy Butter Chicken? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Butter Chicken! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to thaw, move it to the fridge for several hours or overnight before reheating on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your Creamy Butter Chicken sauce turns out too thick, start by adding a splash of chicken stock or water while stirring to reach your desired consistency. Heat gently, and keep adding liquid until you achieve a creamy, velvety texture that you love. Remember, it’s better to add a little at a time to avoid making it too thin.
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Great question! The key ingredients in Creamy Butter Chicken include dairy (Greek yogurt, cream, and butter) and nuts (optional ground almonds). For a nut-free version, simply omit the almonds, and you can use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option. Always check labels for any additives if you have severe allergies!
How can I adjust the spice level for my family?
You can easily tailor the spice level of your Creamy Butter Chicken! To make it milder, reduce the number of whole red chiles or even omit them completely. For a subtler flavor, consider using curry powder instead of garam masala. Taste as you cook, and remember: The more the merrier when it comes to experimenting!
Creamy Butter Chicken: Your New Favorite Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ground turmeric, ground cumin, and garam masala. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they're well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until translucent and lightly browned.
- Stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the cinnamon stick, 2 cups of diced tomatoes, 2 whole red chiles, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken (with all the marinade) to the pan and sear for 5 minutes. Pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup of cream and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top. Serve this luscious Creamy Butter Chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.