Authentic Butter Chicken in 1 Hour

Name: Authentic Butter Chicken in 1 Hour
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; ½ teaspoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional for heat; 1 teaspoon garam masala; ½ teaspoon curry powder; ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley, optional for garnish; Naan bread; Steamed rice

by Jannet Lisa

23 de September de 2025

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Butter chicken has a way of transforming an ordinary evening into something truly special. I remember the first time I tried to recreate that restaurant magic in my own kitchen, and honestly, I was a bit intimidated. But uncovering the secrets to truly authentic butter chicken ingredients, like rich cream and a perfectly balanced spice blend, made all the difference. Now, I can whip up this easy butter chicken at home in under an hour, and the aroma of ginger, garlic, and warming spices filling my house is just heavenly. The velvety sauce clinging to tender chicken is pure comfort. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken

There are so many reasons this recipe is a winner! Get ready to fall in love:

Incredible flavor that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant.
Remarkably quick prep and cook time, perfect for weeknights.
A truly creamy butter chicken experience that’s rich and satisfying.
Surprisingly budget-friendly compared to ordering takeout.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters adore.
You get that luxurious, velvety texture with this creamy butter chicken.
It’s a healthy way to enjoy a classic dish.

Authentic Butter Chicken Ingredients

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to an unforgettable homemade butter chicken sauce:

1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks – thighs stay tender and juicy.
1 teaspoon salt, for the marinade.
1 teaspoon garlic powder, adds a foundational savory note.
1 teaspoon sweet paprika, for color and a mild sweetness.
½ teaspoon curry powder, a blend that provides warmth.
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt, helps tenderize the chicken and bind the marinade.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil, for sautéing.
3 tablespoons butter, divided – essential for that rich, authentic butter chicken flavor.
6 garlic cloves, minced – fresh garlic is key for pungency.
1 medium onion, diced – provides sweetness and body to the sauce.
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce – the base of our vibrant sauce.
1 teaspoon sugar, balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste, for seasoning the sauce.
½ teaspoon black pepper, for a touch of spice.
2 cups heavy cream – this is crucial for that signature creamy butter chicken texture.
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional for heat – add more or less depending on your spice preference.
1 teaspoon garam masala, a finishing spice blend that adds complex aroma.
½ teaspoon curry powder, an extra touch for depth of flavor.
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley, optional for garnish – for a fresh finish.
Naan bread, for serving.
Steamed rice, another classic pairing.

How to Make Butter Chicken

Follow these simple butter chicken cooking instructions for a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare the chicken. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon curry powder. Stir in 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt until everything is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes; the yogurt will help tenderize the chicken beautifully.
Step 2: Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is nicely browned on all sides and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft, translucent, and wonderfully fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base for our sauce.
Step 4: Pour in the 15-ounce can tomato sauce. Stir in 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. If you like a little heat, add the ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper now. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the 2 cups heavy cream, 1 teaspoon garam masala, and the additional ½ teaspoon curry powder. Mix everything gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer very gently for another 5 minutes, just until heated through. Be careful not to boil it vigorously after adding the cream.
Step 6: Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the luscious sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken completely. Let the dish simmer for a final 5–10 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and absorb all those incredible flavors. These final butter chicken cooking instructions ensure everything melds perfectly.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley if you like a touch of green and freshness. Serve this amazing butter chicken immediately with warm naan bread and fluffy steamed rice for the ultimate comfort meal. Enjoy your homemade Indian butter chicken gravy!

Pro Tips for the Best Butter Chicken

Want to elevate your butter chicken game? Here are my go-to tips for achieving that perfect, restaurant-quality flavor at home:

Marinate the chicken longer: For an even deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate in the yogurt and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator. This really tenderizes the meat.
Don’t rush the sauce: Simmering the tomato sauce and cream gently allows the flavors to meld beautifully and creates that signature velvety texture.
Taste and adjust: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasonings. You might need a pinch more salt, a touch more sugar to balance acidity, or a bit more garam masala for aroma.
Use fresh ginger and garlic: While the recipe calls for powders and minced, using fresh, finely grated ginger and garlic in the sauce base will add an incredible depth of flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect Murgh Makhani recipe?

The secret is in the balance of rich ingredients like butter and cream, combined with a slow simmer to allow the spices and tomatoes to meld. Achieving that smooth, luxurious sauce is key to a truly restaurant-style butter chicken. For more insights into authentic Indian cooking, you might find resources on Indian cuisine helpful.

Can I make Chicken Makhani dish ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the chicken marinade and the sauce separately up to a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Then, just cook the chicken and combine it with the sauce when you’re ready to eat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Indian butter chicken gravy?

A common pitfall is curdling the cream; avoid this by adding the cream on low heat and not letting the sauce boil vigorously. Also, don’t overcook the chicken once it’s added back to the sauce, or it can become tough. Understanding the science behind cooking can help prevent these issues; for example, learning about dairy emulsions can be quite illuminating.

Best Ways to Serve Butter Chicken

This rich and flavorful butter chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. My absolute favorite way to enjoy it is with warm, pillowy butter chicken with naan bread – perfect for scooping up every last drop of that luscious sauce. For a more complete meal, fluffy basmati rice or jeera rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the gravy wonderfully. You could also serve it alongside a simple cucumber raita or a fresh kachumber salad to add a cooling contrast to the spices.

A close-up of tender butter chicken served with fluffy naan bread, ready to be enjoyed

Nutrition Facts for Butter Chicken

A single serving of this delicious butter chicken offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 550
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Butter Chicken

Even though this dish is so good you’ll want to eat it all at once, knowing how to store and reheat your butter chicken is key for enjoying it later. Once your delicious meal has cooled down, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for a quick butter chicken for dinner later in the week. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When you’re ready to reheat, the microwave is your best friend for speed. Gently warm the butter chicken in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. If you have a little more time, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s bubbling and hot. Both methods work beautifully to bring back that wonderful creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken

What is butter chicken made of?

At its heart, butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is made from marinated chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy, and spiced tomato-based sauce. The signature ingredients include butter, cream, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic Indian spices like garam masala and fenugreek. It’s this combination that gives it that distinctively smooth, velvety texture and complex flavor profile.

Is butter chicken really made with a lot of butter?

Yes, butter is a fundamental ingredient that gives the dish its name and contributes significantly to its rich flavor and smooth texture. While this recipe uses a few tablespoons for sautéing and finishing the sauce, traditional versions can be quite generous. Don’t be afraid of the butter; it’s what makes this Indian butter chicken gravy so decadent!

Can I make butter chicken healthier?

You can definitely make adjustments to create a lighter version. Consider using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a creamier, tangier sauce with less fat. You can also use chicken breast instead of thighs, and reduce the overall amount of butter. While it might not be exactly the same as the classic, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of this chicken makhani dish with fewer calories.

What’s the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?

While both are popular Indian chicken dishes with creamy tomato-based sauces, they have distinct differences. Butter chicken (Murgh Makhani) is generally milder, sweeter, and creamier, with a smoother sauce often featuring fenugreek. Chicken tikka masala typically has a tangier flavor, a more pronounced spice blend (often including cumin and coriander), and the chicken is usually grilled or tandoori-marinated before being added to the sauce, giving it a slightly smoky depth.

Variations of Butter Chicken You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, why not explore some exciting twists on this beloved dish? Here are a few ideas to keep your taste buds excited:

Spicy Butter Chicken: For those who love a kick, amp up the heat! Increase the cayenne pepper, add a finely chopped green chili to the onion sauté, or even incorporate a pinch of red chili flakes into the sauce. This variation transforms it into a fiery delight.
Butter Chicken with Coconut Milk: Swap out the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free and subtly tropical twist. This creates a wonderfully creamy texture and a slightly different flavor profile that’s still utterly delicious.
Lighter Butter Chicken: If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using Greek yogurt or a blend of yogurt and milk instead of heavy cream. You can also opt for chicken breast and reduce the amount of butter. It’s a lighter take on the classic that still delivers amazing flavor.
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: For ultimate convenience, toss your marinated chicken and sauce ingredients into a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender and the sauce is rich. It’s a fantastic way to prepare this Indian butter chicken gravy with minimal effort.