Pin A classic Indian favorite featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce paired with fragrant basmati rice pilaf. Perfect for a comforting meal full of flavor and spice.
I first learned to make butter chicken from a dear friend who grew up in Delhi. The blend of spices, creamy texture, and easy rice pilaf instantly became a family favorite we make for celebrations and cozy nights alike.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: 600 g, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Plain yogurt: 2 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 2 tsp
- Garam masala: 2 tsp
- Ground turmeric: 1 tsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp, plus 1 tsp for rice pilaf
- Butter: 2 tbsp for chicken, 2 tbsp butter or ghee for rice pilaf
- Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped for chicken; 1 small, finely chopped for rice pilaf
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced for chicken; 2 cloves minced for rice pilaf
- Fresh ginger: 1 tbsp grated
- Crushed tomatoes: 400 g (1 can)
- Heavy cream: 150 ml
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tbsp
- Fresh cilantro: 2 tbsp chopped, for garnish
- Basmati rice: 1 ½ cups, rinsed
- Bay leaf: 1
- Whole cloves: 3
- Green cardamom pods: 4, lightly crushed
- Water or chicken broth: 2 ½ cups
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken:
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken, mix well, and marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
- Prepare the sauce:
- Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics and simmer:
- Add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the chicken:
- Add marinated chicken (with marinade) to the sauce. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
- Finish with cream and garnish:
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust salt to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Make the rice pilaf:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, bay leaf, cloves, and cardamom. Sauté for 1 minute.
- Cook the rice:
- Add rinsed rice, stir to coat with butter and spices. Add water (or broth) and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Finish the rice:
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve butter chicken hot with rice pilaf on the side.
Pin This dish is always requested for birthday dinners in our family, and my kids love helping stir the rice pilaf while the chicken simmers. It is a meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Required Tools
Large skillet, medium saucepan with lid, knife and cutting board, mixing bowls, and wooden spoon are recommended for efficient cooking, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (butter, cream, yogurt). Some broths may have gluten, so opt for gluten-free if needed. Certain garam masala blends may contain nuts; check packaging closely for allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 610 calories, 27 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 35 g protein for a satisfying, balanced meal.
Pin Try serving this butter chicken with naan or roti for even more comfort. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Recipe Q&A
- → What cut of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and ability to absorb flavors well, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- → How can I make the sauce richer?
Adding a bit more butter before serving enhances the sauce’s richness and adds a smooth texture.
- → Can I substitute cream in the sauce?
Half-and-half or coconut milk can be used for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, adjusting the flavors accordingly.
- → What spices flavor the rice pilaf?
Cardamom pods, whole cloves, and bay leaf infuse the basmati rice with fragrant, warm notes that complement the main dish.
- → How to ensure the rice remains fluffy?
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly before cooking, and let it rest covered for 5 minutes after simmering before fluffing with a fork.