Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken
If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with bold spices, velvety sauce, and soul-warming comfort, Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken is the recipe you need. Known for its rich aroma, tender chicken pieces, and luxurious tomato-based curry, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your home kitchen.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or just exploring, this butter chicken recipe is the perfect way to dive into bold, fragrant flavors without an overwhelming list of ingredients or complicated steps.
The History and Charm of Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, originated in Delhi in the 1950s. It was created by chance when leftover tandoori chicken was mixed with a creamy tomato gravy. Since then, it has become a global favorite for its mild yet aromatic spice blend and decadent sauce.
What sets butter chicken apart is its versatility—it can be served with naan, rice, or even scooped with a flaky paratha. The combination of yogurt-marinated chicken and a buttery, spice-kissed curry sauce makes it a comforting dish with wide appeal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken requires a thoughtful balance of spices and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust for heat)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 ½ cups tomato purée or crushed tomatoes
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. Sear the marinated chicken until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked, as it will simmer later in the sauce. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Sauce
In the same pan, melt the butter and add chopped onions. Cook until translucent, then stir in ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until aromatic, about 2 minutes. Add cumin, coriander, chili powder, and paprika, and let the spices bloom for 30 seconds.
4. Add Tomato and Simmer
Pour in the tomato purée, stir well, and let simmer for 10–15 minutes, until thickened. Add cream and sugar, stirring to create a silky texture. Season with salt.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken to the pan and simmer in the sauce for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips for the Creamiest Butter Chicken
- Use chicken thighs: They remain juicier and more tender compared to chicken breast.
- Marinate overnight: Deepens the flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
- Don’t rush the sauce: Letting the tomatoes simmer removes acidity and brings depth.
- For a smoky touch, try grilling or broiling the chicken before adding it to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with warm, fluffy naan or steamed basmati rice. For a more complete Indian dinner spread, you can also add cucumber raita, pickled onions, or a light salad on the side.
Hosting guests? Pair this dish with an appetizer like Garlic Bread Ritz Bits for a unique fusion snack or Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread to start with creamy indulgence.
Make It a Meal
Pairing butter chicken with dishes that match its rich profile can elevate your dinner table. Here are a few exciting pairings to round out the meal:
- Asian Glazed Salmon Dinner for a surf-and-turf experience with an Asian twist.
- Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad as a zesty, creamy side dish.
- Sweet Chili Chicken if you’re building a spread with diverse flavor profiles.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, try the Mediterranean Vegetable Casserole as a perfect partner to this chicken curry.
Leftovers? Even Better the Next Day
Butter chicken only gets better with time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors deepen overnight, making it ideal for meal prep.
Looking for more creamy comfort food? Don’t miss the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo—a rich and satisfying side or standalone dish.
Make It Your Own
You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste:
- For milder curry: Reduce the chili powder and increase the cream.
- For more heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or a sliced green chili to the sauce.
- To make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan butter.
You might also enjoy trying other globally inspired creamy meals, like Creamy Salmon Spinach Pasta for a seafood twist or Maple Glazed Bacon Chicken for sweet-savory comfort.
Why This Dish Belongs in Your Dinner Rotation
The popularity of Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken isn’t just hype—it’s earned. It’s deeply satisfying, richly flavored, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or spice lovers, this dish adapts beautifully.
Plus, it’s ideal for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and makes even a regular weeknight feel like a special occasion. Want more weeknight-friendly options? Try these protein-packed recipes:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken is a crowd-pleasing, comfort-forward dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to explore rich, global flavors in a simple and accessible way. With the right balance of cream, spice, and savory depth, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Whether you’re planning a dinner party, need a cozy weeknight dinner, or want to explore more global cuisine, this butter chicken fits the bill.
For more creamy dinner inspiration, check out our Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake or keep things spicy with Spicy Korean Ramen with Grilled Beef.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few spices, pantry staples, and a touch of love, Creamy Indian Spiced Butter Chicken will win you—and your guests—over.
