Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe - A Rich and Flavorful Delight

Experience the decadent flavors of Creamy Butter Chicken, a rich and flavorful delight that will tantalize your taste buds. This classic Indian dish features tender marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. Perfectly paired with a side of fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe - A Rich and Flavorful Delight
  • Prep Time
    15 mins
  • Cook Time
    40 mins
  • Total Time
    55 mins

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 8 green cardamom pods
  • 10 cloves, gently crushed
  • 10 whole black peppercorns
  • 1 cinnamon stick piece (about 1/2 inch long)
  • 3 serrano peppers
  • 2 tsp ginger paste
  • 2 tsp garlic paste
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • 1 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried fenugreek leaves
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp softened butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Step 1

Begin by warming up some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Saute the chicken until it turns a beautiful golden brown, which should take around 5 minutes. Once done, set it aside to keep warm and juicy.

Step 2

Next, create a delightful spice pouch by wrapping cardamom pods, cloves, peppercorns, and a cinnamon stick in cheesecloth, securing it with an elastic band or twist-tie. This will infuse your dish with a burst of aromatic flavors.

Step 3

In a blender, combine serrano peppers, ginger paste, and garlic paste until they form a smooth and vibrant paste. Add in crushed tomatoes and blend until everything is harmoniously mixed. Transfer this flavorful mixture to a saucepan, then toss in some water, paprika, and your spice bundle. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer until the liquid reduces by half.

Step 4

Now, introduce the browned chicken into the fragrant sauce, stirring it gently to coat every piece. Cover the saucepan and let the chicken cook through for about 15 minutes. Sprinkle in some salt and fenugreek seeds, letting the dish simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5

Before serving, remove the bundle of spices and give the dish a touch of richness by swirling in butter and cream. Let it simmer a bit longer until the butter melts completely, creating a luscious texture. Once ready, savor this aromatic and creamy chicken dish while it's piping hot.

Extra Tips & Suggestions

  1. 1. Keep your ingredients fresh by storing them in a cool, dark place. This will help preserve the flavors of the spices and herbs used in the recipe.
  2. 2. Invest in a set of airtight containers to store any leftover cooked chicken. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Reviews

  • B
    Benjamin
    August 23, 2025

    Oh my goodness, this Creamy Butter Chicken recipe is an absolute delight! The rich and flavorful sauce is just heavenly. You've truly outdone yourself with this one. Can't wait to make it again soon!

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