: Creamy Butter Chicken – The Ultimate Homemade Restaurant-Style Recipe

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butter Chicken

Craving that rich, silky, and flavorful restaurant-style creamy butter chicken? You’re in for a treat! This dish brings the perfect balance of spiced tomato gravy and buttery creaminess that melts in your mouth. It’s one of the most popular Indian dishes worldwide — now you can make it right in your kitchen.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe never fails to impress!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Marinating the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into medium cubes)

• ½ cup thick curd (yogurt)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• Salt to taste

For the Butter Chicken Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 2 tbsp fresh cream

• 10 cashews (soaked and blended into paste)

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• ½ tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Non-stick frying pan or wok

• Mixing bowls

• Blender (for tomato and cashew paste)

• Whisk or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix curd, lemon juice, spices, and salt.

2. Add chicken pieces and coat well.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan.

2. Sear marinated chicken pieces until golden brown (80% cooked).

3. Set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Gravy

1. In the same pan, heat butter and a little oil.

2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden.

3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.

4. Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.

5. Add chili powder, coriander powder, sugar, and salt.

6. Mix in the cashew paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.

7. Pour in ½ cup of water and simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine & Simmer

1. Add the cooked chicken to the gravy.

2. Pour in cream and sprinkle kasuri methi.

3. Let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until thick and glossy.

4. Adjust seasoning and consistency.

Garnish and Serve

• Top with a swirl of cream and fresh coriander leaves.

• Serve hot with naan, basmati rice, or paratha.

Meal Serving Process

• For a restaurant-style experience:
  Serve butter chicken in a deep dish bowl, drizzle cream on top, and sprinkle coriander.

• Pairing ideas:
  Butter naan, jeera rice, or garlic butter roti complement the rich sauce beautifully.

• Serving temperature: Best served hot for the full buttery aroma and creamy texture.

• Tips for Success

• Use fresh cream and butter for authentic richness.

• Do not overcook chicken – it should be tender and juicy.

• Add cashew paste instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

• Marinate longer for deeper flavor infusion.

• Always rest the dish for 5–10 minutes before serving to let flavors blend.

Health & Nutrition Benefits

• Nutrient Approx. Amount (per serving) Benefit Calories 390 kca lProvides balanced energy Protein 25g Builds muscles and repairs tissues Fat 22g Adds satiety and flavor Carbohydrates 15g Provides energy Vitamin A HighBoosts immunity and skinhealth Calcium Moderate Supports bone strength

Health Benefits:

• Good source of lean protein from chicken.

• Contains healthy fats from butter and cashews.

• Spices aid digestion and improve metabolism.

• Can be made lighter by reducing butter or using yogurt-based cream.

FAQs About Creamy Butter Chicken

Q1: Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes! Substitute fresh cream with milk or cashew paste for a lighter, dairy-free version.