Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: Creamy, Flavorful & Restaurant-Style

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine. Known for its rich, velvety tomato-based sauce infused with butter, cream, and aromatic spices, this dish strikes the perfect balance between savory, mildly spicy, and slightly sweet. While many enjoy it at restaurants, making authentic butter chicken at home is easier than you think and just as delicious.

In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare Butter Chicken step by step, get expert cooking tips, explore variations, and even discover the best pairings for this indulgent dish.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken Recipe

• Authentic Flavors – Restaurant-quality taste at home.
• Rich & Creamy – Perfect balance of spices, butter, and cream.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Marinade chicken in advance for deeper flavor.
• Family Favorite – Mild spice level makes it kid-friendly.
• Versatile – Pairs beautifully with naan, rice, or roti.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs recommended for juiciness)
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 ½ tsp chili powder (adjust for heat)
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Butter Sauce (Gravy):

• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2–3 medium tomatoes, pureed (or 1 ½ cups canned tomato puree)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp ground fenugreek (kasuri methi, optional but authentic)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup cashews, soaked & blended (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices.
2. Add chicken pieces and coat well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).

Step 2 – Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Add marinated chicken and cook until golden brown (about 6–8 minutes).
3. Chicken does not need to be fully cooked through it will finish in the sauce.

Step 3 – Prepare the Sauce

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt butter with oil.
2. Sauté onions until golden brown.
3. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in tomato puree and paste. Cook until oil separates from the mixture.
5. Add chili powder, cumin, coriander, fenugreek, and garam masala. Cook 2–3 minutes.

Step 4 – Add Chicken & Finish the Sauce

1. Add cooked chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir well.
2. Lower heat and stir in cream and cashew paste. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt, butter, or cream as needed.

Tips for the Best Butter Chicken

• Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
• Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
• Cashews or almonds give the sauce restaurant-like creaminess.
• Don’t boil the cream simmer gently to prevent curdling.
• Toast kasuri methi (fenugreek leaves) before adding for maximum aroma.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Butter Chicken – Add extra chili or a green chili paste.
• Dairy-Free – Swap cream for coconut cream and butter for vegan butter.
• Grilled Butter Chicken – Cook chicken on skewers for a smoky flavor.
• Paneer Butter Masala – Replace chicken with paneer cubes for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

• With Naan Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
• With Steamed Basmati Rice – Classic pairing.
• With Jeera Rice – Fragrant cumin rice enhances flavors.
• With Roti or Paratha – Great for an authentic Indian dinner.

How to Store & Reheat

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens.

Nutrition (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 32 g
• Fat: 26 g
• Carbs: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g

FAQs About Butter Chicken

1. What’s the difference between Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala?
Butter Chicken is creamier, slightly sweeter, and richer, while Chicken Tikka Masala is spicier with a more robust tomato flavor.

2. Can I use store-bought tomato sauce?
Yes, but puree fresh tomatoes or use canned puree for the most authentic taste.

3. Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes, use yogurt or coconut cream for a lighter version.

4. How do I make it spicier?
Add fresh green chilies, extra chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

5. Can I meal prep Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! Make the sauce ahead, refrigerate, and cook chicken fresh before serving.

Conclusion

This Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is a true comfort food that delivers restaurant-style flavors right from your kitchen. Creamy, aromatic, and perfectly spiced, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. Pair it with naan or rice, and you’ll have a dish that impresses every time.

✨ Next time you crave Indian food, skip takeout and make this butter chicken at home it’s easier than you think, and even more delicious!