Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe

A truly great butter chicken isn’t just a recipe,it’s a story of slow-simmered tomatoes, aromatic spices, and velvety richness coming together in perfect harmony. This dish, born in the bustling kitchens of Delhi, has earned global admiration for its exquisite balance of warmth, creaminess, and gentle heat. Crafted with chef-level precision, this version brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen.

Ingredients List

• 600g boneless chicken thighs, cut into medium pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 large tomatoes, blended into a puree
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste (for gravy)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed
• ½ cup fresh cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for balance)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken

Combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, garam masala, turmeric, and salt. Coat chicken thoroughly and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Sear the chicken

Heat oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add marinated chicken and cook until lightly charred and 70% done. Set aside.

3. Build the base

In the same pan, add remaining butter and sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until aromatic.

4. Add the tomato puree

Pour in the tomato puree and cook on medium heat until the oil begins to separate. This step is crucial for the signature depth of butter chicken.

5. Incorporate spices

Add chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes to bloom the spices.

6. Simmer the chicken

Return the chicken to the pan. Add a splash of water if needed and simmer for 10–12 minutes until tender.

7. Create the final creamy finish

Add cream, sugar (if using), and crushed fenugreek leaves. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the gravy turns silky and luscious.

8. Serve with finesse

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a swirl of cream. Pair with naan, basmati rice, or roti.

Cook Time

Total: 45–50 minutes
(10 minutes prep, 1 hour marination, 30–40 minutes cooking)

Servings

Serves 4

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days,the flavors intensify beautifully.
For freezing, store the cooked gravy separately from the chicken and combine when reheating for best texture.
Reheat on low heat to preserve creaminess.

Suggestions

• For a smokier finish, place a hot charcoal piece in a small bowl inside the pot, add a drop of ghee, and cover for 2 minutes.
• Swap cream with cashew paste for a richer, nutty flavor.
• Add a teaspoon of honey for a gentle sweetness that balances the spices.

Seasonal Relevance

Butter chicken shines year-round, but it’s especially comforting during colder months when creamy, warming dishes feel extra satisfying. In summer, pair it with light sides like cucumber raita and fresh salads to keep the meal balanced.

Conclusion

This authentic butter chicken recipe celebrates the soul of Indian cuisine,bold yet delicate, rich yet balanced, comforting yet elegant. With carefully layered flavors and chef-level precision, it delivers the luxurious taste you expect from a top-tier restaurant. Whether shared at family gatherings or savored on a quiet evening, this dish is guaranteed to impress.