Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of authentic Butter Chicken, a dish renowned for its incredible depth of flavor and luscious texture. This simplified recipe brings the magic of a restaurant-quality meal right into your home, making it effortlessly achievable even on the busiest weeknights. Forget the lengthy marinating times; our method allows you to whip up this Indian-inspired delight in no time, proving that extraordinary flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. Perfect for a last-minute dinner idea that promises to impress every palate, this Butter Chicken is a testament to the fact that some of the best culinary experiences can be savored without hours of preparation.
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Serve this exquisite Butter Chicken alongside warm, fluffy Naan Bread, a bed of fragrant basmati rice, or even a simple side salad for a truly complete and satisfying meal. The harmonious blend of savory spices, tangy tomatoes, and rich cream creates an unforgettable experience that will quickly become a cherished family favorite.
My journey in the culinary world, much like this blog which began in 2007, has been one of continuous learning and delicious evolution. Reflecting on past recipes, it’s clear how far we’ve come. This particular Butter Chicken recipe, originally posted in 2010, was long overdue for a complete overhaul. To be perfectly honest, the initial rendition simply didn’t capture the magic of what Butter Chicken truly is.
Before that first attempt, I had never experienced the captivating flavors of Butter Chicken. It wasn’t until I tasted an authentic version that I truly understood its incredible appeal – a revelation that highlighted just how much my original recipe had missed the mark. That experience ignited a passion to create a Butter Chicken recipe that was not only genuinely delicious but also accessible for every home cook.
Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a new, utterly delectable Butter Chicken recipe that perfectly balances incredible flavor with weeknight convenience. This version is so rich and satisfying, yet it can be prepared quickly, even on short notice, because it cleverly sidesteps the traditional marinating step. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you crave something special without the extensive prep.
Understanding Butter Chicken: Murgh Makhani Explained
Butter Chicken, known in India as Murgh Makhani, is a classic curry dish that emerged from the kitchens of Delhi in the 1950s. Its fame stems from a luxurious sauce characterized by three primary ingredients: a vibrant tomato base, rich cream, and, of course, butter. The dish’s English name, “Butter Chicken,” gained popularity later in the 1970s when it was introduced to the Manhattan culinary scene, quickly becoming a beloved staple in Indian restaurants across the Western world.
Interestingly, the initial recipe I encountered was from an Indian cookbook and confusingly listed both “Butter Chicken” and “Chicken Tikka Masala” as if they were interchangeable. This led to a common misconception that these two iconic dishes were simply different names for the same thing. However, this is far from the truth, and understanding their distinctions enhances the appreciation for each unique flavor profile.
Butter Chicken vs. Chicken Tikka Masala: What’s the Difference?
While often conflated, Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala possess distinct characteristics that set them apart. The primary difference lies in their flavor profiles and origins. Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is renowned for its incredibly creamy, rich, and often sweeter taste, with a milder spice level. Its sauce typically features a higher proportion of cream and butter, contributing to its signature silky texture and less pronounced tomato tang.
Chicken Tikka Masala, on the other hand, generally offers a more robust and tangy tomato base, often with a spicier kick. Its origins are also quite different; while Butter Chicken is authentically Indian, Chicken Tikka Masala is believed to have been created in Britain, making it a beloved Anglo-Indian fusion dish. Tikka Masala often involves chicken pieces that have been marinated and cooked in a tandoor (or grilled) before being added to the sauce, giving it a slightly charred flavor absent in traditional Butter Chicken.
It’s important to note that this specific recipe, designed for home cooks, is not strictly an “authentic” Butter Chicken in the most traditional sense. Authentic Murgh Makhani typically involves chicken marinated in yogurt, lemon juice, and an array of spices, often cooked in a tandoor oven for that distinctive smoky char. To make this recipe perfectly suited for a quick weeknight meal, we’ve streamlined the process by skipping the extensive marinating step and the need for a tandoor. Consequently, this version strikes a delightful balance, borrowing the rich, creamy essence of Butter Chicken with a hint of the robust spice common in Tikka Masala, creating a hybrid that’s both deeply flavorful and incredibly practical for busy kitchens.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Weeknight Butter Chicken
Crafting exceptional Butter Chicken starts with understanding the role each ingredient plays in building its signature flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Butter: This namesake ingredient is fundamental for achieving the iconic richness and smooth mouthfeel of Butter Chicken. We typically use unsalted butter to give us precise control over the dish’s overall salinity, but salted butter can certainly be used—just be mindful when adding additional salt. The butter also helps brown the chicken beautifully and forms the luscious base for our aromatic sauce.
- Chicken: For unparalleled tenderness and flavor, we highly recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are inherently juicier and more forgiving than chicken breasts, meaning they are much harder to overcook and remain succulent even after simmering in the sauce. While chicken breasts can be substituted, you might find the texture less moist and the flavor slightly less robust. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy serving.
- Onion, Garlic, and Ginger: These three aromatics form the essential flavor foundation of nearly all great Indian curries. Freshness is paramount here; using fresh onions, garlic, and ginger will provide the most vibrant and pungent flavors, which truly elevate the dish. Chop the onion finely and mince or grate the garlic and ginger for the best integration into the sauce.
- Spices: This carefully curated blend of spices is the heart and soul of our Butter Chicken. You’ll need:
- Garam Masala: A warm, fragrant blend of ground spices common in Indian cuisine, providing a complex, aromatic depth.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a beautiful reddish hue and a subtle, smoky undertone that complements the richness of the butter and cream.
- Curry Powder: While not a single spice, a good quality curry powder contributes a broad spectrum of flavors and an authentic “curry” essence.
- Cumin: Earthy and warm, ground cumin is a staple that adds essential depth to the spice blend.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into harmony. Always taste and adjust as needed.
These spices should be readily available in most grocery stores, and using fresh, potent spices will make a significant difference in the final taste.
- Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste: The combination of both tomato paste and tomato sauce is key to achieving a balanced, deep tomato flavor in the sauce. Tomato paste offers concentrated, intense umami and tanginess, while tomato sauce provides the bulk of the liquid and a sweeter, fruitier tomato note. Together, they create a rich, vibrant base.
- Cream: Heavy cream is absolutely crucial for achieving the signature luxurious, velvety texture and richness of Butter Chicken. Its high-fat content makes it stable for simmering and provides an unparalleled creamy consistency. We highly advise sticking with heavy cream for the best results. If you need an alternative, plain whole-milk yogurt or crème fraîche can be used for a slightly tangier sauce, or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option (though this will subtly alter the flavor profile).
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro serves as a bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a refreshing contrast to the rich curry. While optional, especially if you’re not a fan, it significantly enhances the visual appeal and offers a burst of fresh flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Delicious Butter Chicken
Preparing this incredibly flavorful Butter Chicken is surprisingly straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight meal. Follow these simple steps to bring this creamy, aromatic dish to life:
- Brown the Chicken: Begin by placing a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt until shimmering. Once hot, add your bite-sized chicken thighs in two batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch until beautifully browned on all sides, which helps to lock in flavor and adds a deeper dimension to the final dish. Remove the browned chicken to a plate and set aside, keeping it warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds, just until they become fragrant, being careful not to burn them as this can turn their flavor bitter.
- Bloom the Spices: This step is crucial for unlocking the full aroma and flavor of your spices. Add the garam masala, smoked paprika, curry powder, ground cumin, and salt to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds, allowing the spices to toast gently in the butter and release their complex fragrances. This “blooming” process deepens their flavor profile considerably.
- Build the Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir the tomato paste into the fragrant spice mixture, cooking for about 1 minute to allow its concentrated flavor to develop. Then, pour in the tomato sauce, stirring until well combined. Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they are coated in the nascent sauce. Finally, stir in the heavy cream. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture gently simmer for about 20 minutes. It’s important to maintain a gentle simmer and avoid a rolling boil to prevent the cream from curdling and to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is tender and cooked through, your Butter Chicken is ready. Serve it hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, accompanied by warm naan bread. For a final flourish, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped cilantro, which adds a vibrant color and a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
More Beloved Take-Out Favorites You Can Master at Home
If you’ve enjoyed the satisfaction of recreating restaurant-quality Butter Chicken in your own kitchen, you’ll love exploring these other popular take-out dishes that are surprisingly easy to make from scratch:
For a quintessential Americanized Chinese favorite, you absolutely must try our irresistible Orange Chicken. It’s crispy, tangy, and sweet, a true crowd-pleaser that rivals any restaurant version.
Dreaming of the Hawaiian islands? Bring the taste of paradise home with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make Huli Huli Chicken, perfect for grilling on a warm evening.
Another classic Chinese takeout sensation, our Kung Pao Chicken delivers that perfect balance of spicy, savory, and nutty goodness. Skip the delivery and enjoy the fresh flavors at home.
Why order pizza when you can craft your own gourmet pie? Master the art of homemade pizza with The Best Homemade Pizza Recipe, giving you complete control over your favorite toppings and crust.
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Butter Chicken
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Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 onion chopped
- 5-6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Freshly chopped cilantro and cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the chicken in 2 batches, cooking until browned. Remove from the skillet to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the garam masala, smoked paprika, curry powder, cumin and salt and stir for 30 seconds.
- Stir the tomato paste into the mixture, followed by the tomato sauce. Add the cooked chicken back in and stir to coat. Stir in the cream. Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, being careful to not boil the sauce.
- Serve the chicken and sauce over rice, sprinkled with cilantro, if desired.
Recipe Notes:
Substitutions:
CHICKEN: While chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, you can certainly use chicken breasts. Just be mindful not to overcook them to maintain moisture.
CREAM: For the most luxurious and authentic texture, heavy cream is recommended. However, plain whole-milk yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as alternatives, which may add a slight tang. Full-fat coconut milk can also be used for a dairy-free option, but be aware that it will impart a distinct coconut flavor to the dish.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide. Nutrition information does not include rice or cilantro.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 629kcal (31%),
Carbohydrates: 11g (4%),
Protein: 33g (66%),
Fat: 54g (83%),
Saturated Fat: 26g (163%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 261mg (87%),
Sodium: 1322mg (57%),
Fiber: 2g (8%),
Sugar: 4g (4%)