Name: Creamy Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for finishing); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup Greek yogurt; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon sugar; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Creamy Butter Chicken is one of those magical meals that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It has that rich, silky tomato-based sauce, infused with gentle spices and creamy butter, that clings to tender chicken like a dream. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or to impress guests, it brings comfort and elegance to the table in equal measure.

This dish draws inspiration from the classic Indian favorite “murgh makhani,” but this version is simplified just enough to make it a weeknight star without sacrificing bold flavor. It’s perfect when paired with fluffy rice, warm naan, or even scooped up with a spoon when no one is watching.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butter Chicken

From the first taste, you’ll fall for the creamy, savory sauce that balances just the right amount of spice with luscious richness. It’s also highly customizable: add a little heat if you like it spicy, or keep it mild and mellow for the whole family. And best of all, it comes together in one pan with pantry staples and simple steps.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts for this dish. Thighs tend to stay juicier and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option. Either will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully, so use what you prefer or have on hand.

Ingredients for the Creamy Butter Chicken

To make the best butter chicken, it’s all about combining the right spices with a smooth, creamy base. This dish uses ingredients you likely already keep in your kitchen, and each one plays a role in building that deep flavor.

Chicken thighs
Butter
Garlic
Ginger
Onion
Tomato paste
Heavy cream
Greek yogurt
Garam masala
Turmeric
Cumin
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Sugar
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

How To Make the Creamy Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and combine it with yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you can plan ahead.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the marinated chicken until browned on all sides. You don’t have to cook it through yet. Remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

In the same pan, add more butter and sauté the onions until golden and soft. Stir in garlic, ginger, and tomato paste. Let it cook down for a couple of minutes until deepened in color and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Spices and Cream

Sprinkle in the remaining spices (garam masala, cumin, paprika) along with a touch of sugar. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until everything comes together into a silky sauce.

Step 5: Simmer with Chicken

Return the chicken to the pan and simmer gently until fully cooked and tender. Adjust seasoning if needed. Finish with a final swirl of butter and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Butter Chicken

This dish serves 4 to 6 people generously, especially when paired with rice or naan to soak up all that buttery sauce. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, and garnish with extra cilantro or even a squeeze of lime for brightness.

To store leftovers, let the butter chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and you can also freeze it for longer storage. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water to restore the saucy consistency.

What to Serve With Creamy Butter Chicken?

Steamed Basmati Rice

Fluffy, lightly scented basmati rice is the classic pairing. It perfectly balances the creamy, spiced sauce.

Homemade Naan Bread

Soft, chewy naan is ideal for scooping up the sauce. Try this Easy Homemade Naan Bread recipe to make your own.

Cucumber Yogurt Salad

A cool and tangy salad with yogurt, cucumber, and mint offers a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish.

Roasted Cauliflower

The roasted edges bring nuttiness and a crisp texture that complements the creamy chicken.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Sautéed green beans with garlic and a bit of butter keep things light and flavorful.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

For a double comfort meal vibe, pair your butter chicken with Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a cozy dinner spread.

Classic Caprese Salad

A burst of tomato, basil, and mozzarella freshness makes a colorful and juicy side. Try our Classic Caprese Salad next to this creamy dish.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this creamy butter chicken, don’t miss these delicious chicken-based favorites:

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for something lighter but still packed with flavor.
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon if you’re swapping chicken for seafood.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms for a hearty meal.
White Chicken Enchilada Casserole if you’re craving a Tex-Mex twist.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken for a crispy, oven-baked option.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the spice or keep it mellow? Serve it with naan or rice? I’d love to hear how you made it your own!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and comfort classics on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to weeknight favorites!

Conclusion

Creamy Butter Chicken is a flavorful, satisfying dish that fits weeknights and special occasions alike. With a balance of spice and creamy richness, it’s sure to become a repeat request in your home. Whether you’re new to Indian-style recipes or a long-time fan, this simple version delivers all the comfort with none of the fuss.