A rich and creamy Indian classic, this Butter Chicken features tender marinated chicken in a velvety tomato-based sauce, paired with fluffy basmati rice and warm garlic naan. It’s a full-flavored, satisfying comfort meal that blends warm spices and luxurious textures in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter Chicken is beloved for its bold yet balanced flavor profile—tangy tomato, warm spices, and rich cream come together in a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Served with fragrant rice and soft garlic naan, it makes for a complete, hearty meal that’s perfect for dinner any day of the week.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken marinade:

boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
plain yogurt
lemon juice
turmeric
garam masala
chili powder
salt

For the butter chicken sauce:

butter
oil
onion, finely chopped
garlic, minced
ginger, grated
cumin
paprika
garam masala
chili flakes (optional)
tomato puree
heavy cream
salt
chopped cilantro for garnish

For serving:

cooked basmati rice
garlic naan (store-bought or homemade)

directions

In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients and coat the chicken thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add butter and sauté chopped onions until softened.
Add garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, garam masala, and chili flakes (if using). Stir and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
Stir in the tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Pour in the heavy cream and return the cooked chicken to the pan. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Serve hot over a bed of basmati rice with garlic naan on the side. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 590 kcal

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Spicier Option: Add green chilies or increase chili powder to elevate the heat.
Lighter Sauce: Use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter dish.
Slow Cooker: Cook marinated chicken in the sauce in a slow cooker on low for 4–6 hours.
Grilled Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken before adding it to the sauce for a smoky flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze the butter chicken (without rice or naan) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs remain more tender and flavorful after cooking.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free yogurt for marinating and coconut milk or cashew cream in the sauce.

Is butter chicken spicy?

It is mildly spiced. You can adjust the heat by modifying the amount of chili powder or omitting the chili flakes.

Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes, both the marinade and sauce can be prepared ahead for easy assembly.

How do I make homemade garlic naan?

Use a basic naan dough, add minced garlic and parsley before cooking on a hot skillet.

Can I use canned tomato sauce?

Yes, substitute tomato puree with canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.

What’s the best rice to serve with butter chicken?

Basmati rice is traditional, offering a fragrant and fluffy complement.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, spinach or peas can be stirred into the sauce for added nutrition.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 1 hour, but overnight for best flavor absorption.

What can I use instead of yogurt in the marinade?

Use sour cream or buttermilk if yogurt is unavailable.

Conclusion

Butter Chicken with White Rice and Garlic Naan is a quintessential comfort dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. With its creamy sauce, aromatic spices, and tender meat, it’s a recipe that invites seconds and never fails to impress. Serve it up for a family dinner or a festive occasion and enjoy the rich tradition of Indian cuisine.