Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Truly the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!) is not just another curry; it’s a creamy, perfectly spiced dish that features tender chicken bathed in a rich sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. The combination of spices and cream creates an unforgettable flavor profile that you won’t get at just any restaurant. Serve it with warm naan or rice, and you have a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple steps that are easy to follow, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dish beyond typical takeout.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it with naan, rice, or even over steamed vegetables for a delicious twist.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and creamy texture make this dish visually appealing for guests.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste by modifying the cayenne pepper.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever, gather your tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing ample space for sauce.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping onions, garlic, ginger, and chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements of ingredients for balanced flavors in your butter chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut in 1 – 2 cubes)
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup vegetable oil (or ghee)
• 2 ½ cups chopped onion (about 2 medium-large)
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp minced ginger
• 3 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne
• 2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
• 1 1/4 cups diced tomatoes (no-salt-added, if canned)
• ¾ cup heavy cream (also called whipping cream)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp cilantro (chopped, to garnish (optional))

How to Make Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken cubes. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with lemon juice, minced garlic, garam masala, and kosher salt. Mix well and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up those flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

In your large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add vegetable oil or ghee. Once hot, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. This should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices

Stir in minced garlic and ginger. After about one minute of cooking, add garam masala, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook this mixture until fragrant—around another minute is usually sufficient.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Cream

Pour in diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the skillet. Let this simmer for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Then stir in heavy cream and mix well.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to your sauce mixture. Ensure each piece is coated well. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once cooked, stir in butter until melted for a silky finish. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever, perfectly paired with naan or rice!

How to Serve Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Serving the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever is all about creating a delightful experience that complements the rich flavors of this dish. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your meal.

With Warm Naan

• Naan is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. Serve it warm, brushed with butter or garlic for added flavor.

Over Steamed Rice

• Place the butter chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed basmati rice. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

Accompanied by Raita

• Raita, a yogurt-based side dish, adds a cooling element to the spice. It balances the richness of the butter chicken beautifully.

With Fresh Salad

• A simple salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy curry.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top of your butter chicken for an aromatic finish and vibrant color.

How to Perfect Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

To ensure you achieve the best results with your butter chicken, consider these essential tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices enhance flavor significantly. Avoid pre-packaged options when possible.

• Marinate Chicken: Marinating the chicken in lemon juice and spices for at least an hour boosts tenderness and flavor.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of cayenne or garam masala based on your spice preference for a personalized touch.

• Cook Slowly: Allowing the curry to simmer gently helps meld flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.

Best Side Dishes for Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

Pairing side dishes with your butter chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Basmati Rice
   A fragrant long-grain rice that complements the rich sauce perfectly.

2. Garlic Naan
   Soft and chewy bread infused with garlic flavor; ideal for scooping up curry.

3. Vegetable Samosas
   Crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas; a great appetizer before the main course.

4. Palak Paneer
   Creamy spinach dish with cubes of paneer cheese; adds another layer of flavor to your meal.

5. Onion Bhaji
   Crunchy onion fritters seasoned with spices; they provide an excellent crunchy contrast.

6. Cucumber Raita
   A cool yogurt dish that balances out spiciness; refreshing and light on the palate.

7. Chickpea Salad
   A protein-packed salad combining chickpeas with fresh veggies; it offers freshness alongside your rich curry.

8. Papadums
   Crispy lentil wafers that add texture and can be enjoyed plain or served with chutney.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!), it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to less flavor. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook until just done and tender for the best texture.

• Ignoring spice levels: Using too little or too much spice can throw off the balance. Adjust spices gradually, tasting as you go.

• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor quality tomatoes can make your sauce taste bland. Opt for high-quality canned or fresh tomatoes for rich flavor.

• Not letting the sauce simmer: Rushing this step can result in an underdeveloped flavor. Allow your sauce to simmer gently to enhance its richness.

• Forgetting the garnish: Skipping cilantro may seem minor, but it adds a fresh touch. Always finish your dish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for brightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for tracking.

Reheating Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!) that might help you get started:

What makes this the best butter chicken recipe ever?

This recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfectly spiced. It’s better than restaurant versions because it uses fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.

Can I make this butter chicken recipe spicy?

Yes! You can increase the cayenne pepper or add more garam masala to adjust the heat level according to your preference.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables like bell peppers and cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I serve this butter chicken?

Serve it hot over basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Don’t forget some extra cilantro on top!

Final Thoughts

The Best Butter Chicken Recipe Ever (Better Than a Restaurant!) is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can adjust spices and ingredients based on your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting dish that will surely impress family and friends!