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The Indian Classic Butter Chicken

Recreate a rich and flavorful Butter Chicken at home with this approachable version of the classic Indian dish. Tender grilled chicken is coated in a smooth, buttery tomato-based sauce for a restaurant-style meal.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: The Indian Classic Butter Chicken
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Notes

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 600 grams chicken breast, cut into chunks

Marinade

  • ⅓ cup yogurt
  • ¾ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or minced ginger and garlic)
  • 1 tablespoon ghee or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Sauce

  • 75 grams butter (5 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste (or minced ginger and garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder (or paprika)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ cup raw cashews, soaked in warm water for 15–20 minutes
  • 1 cup tomato puree (250 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • 1 tablespoon cream
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken
    Lightly score the chicken pieces. Combine them with all marinade ingredients, mixing well so everything is evenly coated. Place in a bowl, cover with cling film, and refrigerate.
  2. Resting time
    Allow the chicken to marinate for 30–40 minutes, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
  3. Grill the chicken
    Thread the chicken onto skewers and cook on a barbecue, stovetop grill, or oven (grill setting). Turn halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The pieces should develop a slight char. Set aside once done.
  4. Make the cashew paste
    Blend the soaked cashews with a small amount of water until smooth. Keep aside.
  5. Start the sauce
    Heat butter in a heavy-bottomed pot. Once melted, add ginger-garlic paste, followed by turmeric and chili powder. Sauté briefly, then pour in the tomato puree.
  6. Build the flavor
    Stir in any remaining marinade, then add kasuri methi and garam masala.
  7. Finish the base
    Add the cashew paste and honey, then switch off the heat.
  8. Blend the sauce
    Use a stick blender to process everything into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  9. Simmer
    Season with salt and let the sauce cook gently for 3–4 minutes.
  10. Combine chicken and sauce
    Add the grilled chicken pieces and mix well so they are fully coated.
  11. Final touch
    Stir in the cream and simmer for another 5–6 minutes. Turn off the heat once ready.
Serving Suggestion
  • Serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
 
Nutrition
Calories: 555 kcal | Carbohydrates: 31 g | Protein: 37 g | Fat: 33 g | Saturated Fat: 15 g | Cholesterol: 154 mg | Sodium: 939 mg | Potassium: 1033 mg | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 23 g | Vitamin A: 1219 IU | Vitamin C: 9 mg | Calcium: 54 mg | Iron: 3 mg
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