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Indian

Classic Butter Chicken

A world-famous Indian curry featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, buttery, and creamy tomato-based sauce.

Classic Butter Chicken — Indian — ChefSnap
15 minsPrep
30 minsCook
4Serves
MediumDifficulty
450 kcal per serving30g protein 12g carbs 25g fat
Watch it made — Classic Butter ChickenWatch it madeLatifs Inspired · 33:50

Ingredients

Method

  1. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder in a bowl. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Grill or pan-fry the chicken pieces until lightly charred and cooked through. Set aside.
  3. In a pot, melt butter and sauté onions, ginger, and garlic paste until golden.
  4. Add tomato puree, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. Simmer until the oil separates.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and the cooked chicken. Simmer for 10 minutes. Garnish with cilantro.

Common questions

Can I substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for butter chicken?

Yes. Boneless chicken thighs are often juicier and more forgiving than breast. Use the same marinade and cook until just done; thighs may need a few extra minutes. They handle simmering in the sauce very well.

How long should I marinate the chicken, and is longer better?

At least 1 hour is good, but 4–8 hours gives better flavor. You can marinate overnight in the fridge for deeper seasoning. Avoid going much longer if the marinade is very acidic, or the texture can turn mushy.

What are the most common mistakes when making butter chicken?

Overcooking the chicken, rushing the onion-tomato base, and adding cream over high heat are common mistakes. Also avoid too much chili early on. Simmer the sauce until it slightly thickens and the fat begins to separate.

How should I store and reheat butter chicken?

Cool it quickly, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

What should I serve with butter chicken?

It pairs best with basmati rice, naan, roti, or paratha. A simple cucumber salad or sliced onions helps balance the richness. If the sauce is very creamy, add a squeeze of lemon and fresh cilantro before serving.