Butter Chicken – A Creamy, Comforting Classic Made Easy

Butter chicken is a rich, creamy Indian curry made with marinated chicken simmered in a tomato-butter-cream sauce. It’s mildly spiced, full of flavor, and one of the most popular dishes in Indian restaurants worldwide.

Whether you’ve ordered it from a local curry house or tried it in a frozen dinner box, chances are, you’ve had a taste of butter chicken—or at least heard of it. But what makes it so beloved? Why does it show up in so many variations, from butter chicken pizza to slow-cooker versions? Let’s break it all down, from its authentic roots to easy home cooking hacks, calorie counts, and flavor swaps.

Why Butter Chicken Is So Popular

Butter chicken (also known as Murgh Makhani in India) is like the “gateway curry” for many people. Why? Because it’s rich, creamy, and not overly spicy, making it perfect for kids, curry newbies, or anyone who loves comfort food.

You’ll find it almost everywhere—from street stalls in Delhi to upscale Indian restaurants in London or New York. Search for butter chicken near me, and you’ll probably find a dozen results. And yes, there’s even honey butter chicken popping up in places like Chicago, giving it a fun regional spin.

Butter Chicken vs. Tikka Masala

Let’s clear up one of the most asked questions: Is butter chicken the same as chicken tikka masala?
Short answer: No, but they’re close cousins.

• Butter Chicken: Originates from India, uses butter and cream in the sauce, is slightly sweeter, and more mellow.
• Chicken Tikka Masala: Born in the UK, uses grilled chicken tikka, spicier, thicker tomato sauce, less buttery.

Both are delicious, but butter chicken wins in the creamy comfort category.

Essential Butter Chicken Ingredients

To get that authentic flavor, you’ll want to gather:

• Chicken (boneless thighs for juicier results or breasts for leaner)
• Yogurt – for marinating and tenderizing
• Garlic & Ginger – classic base flavors
• Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• Butter – lots of it!
• Heavy cream or full-fat milk – for that lush finish
• Garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, coriander
• Salt, sugar, and lemon juice – to balance flavors

You can also play with garlic butter chicken or lemon butter chicken versions by tweaking the aromatics or citrus.

How to Make Butter Chicken (Step-by-Step)

Quick Overview:

1. Marinate the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and spices for 1–4 hours.
2. Sear the chicken pieces until browned but not fully cooked.
3. Make the sauce: melt butter, sauté garlic/ginger, add spices and tomato puree, and simmer.
4. Add cream and return chicken to the pan. Simmer until cooked through and thickened.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro, swirl in more cream if you like.

Want It Even Easier?

Here are two fuss-free versions that work for busy days:

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• Throw everything (except cream) in the slow cooker for 6 hours on low. Stir in cream at the end.

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

• Sauté aromatics with butter, then pressure cook chicken and tomato sauce for 10 minutes. Finish with cream and blend for a silky texture.

You can also check Recipe Tin Eats’ butter chicken for a slightly smokier, restaurant-style flavor profile.

Let’s Talk About the Sauce

The sauce is the soul of butter chicken. Rich, silky, and deep with flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Use tomato paste or puree for a rich body
• Cook spices in butter to bloom the flavors
• Don’t boil the cream—stir it in gently at the end
• Add sugar or honey for that slightly sweet balance
• Taste test for salt, tang (lemon), and heat (chili)

If you like experimenting, peanut butter chicken is another creamy twist—but not the same thing as butter chicken!

Serving Suggestions

• Naan Bread: Use it to scoop every bit of sauce
• Steamed Basmati Rice: The classic pairing
• Garlic Bread or Roti: For fusion-style fun
• Over Fries or Pizza Base: Yes, butter chicken pizza is real and delicious

Nutritional Info & Calories

Butter chicken isn’t exactly low-calorie, but it can be lightened:

Serving (1 cup)	Calories	Protein	Fat	Carbs
Traditional	~400–500	25g	30g	10–12g
Light version	~280	25g	15g	8g

Tips to lighten it:

• Use low-fat yogurt
• Swap cream for milk or coconut milk
• Add more tomatoes, less butter
• Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying

Popular Variations of Butter Chicken

Here are a few twists to explore:

• Goila Butter Chicken – smoky charcoal flavor
• Butter Honey Chicken – sweeter and glazed
• Buttermilk Chicken – tangy and lighter
• Butter Chicken Tenders – fun for kids
• Butter Chicken Pizza – fusion comfort food
• Garlic Butter Chicken – amped-up garlic flavor
• Butterfly Chicken – grilled presentation option

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes! Let it cool, store in airtight containers, and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid splitting the sauce.

2. Can I make it without cream?

Sure—use coconut milk or Greek yogurt. It changes the flavor but keeps it creamy.

3. How spicy is butter chicken?

It’s usually mild. You can add chili powder or green chilies for more heat.

4. Is butter chicken the same as tikka masala?

No. Tikka masala is spicier and less creamy. Butter chicken is smoother and more buttery.

5. What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Boneless thighs are juicy and flavorful. Breasts work too, but may need careful cooking to avoid drying out.

Final Thoughts

Butter chicken is more than just a curry—it’s a celebration of flavor, balance, and comfort. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in the slow cooker, or your Instant Pot, it always delivers that creamy, rich satisfaction. Plus, with so many variations, it’s a recipe you can keep reinventing.

So the next time you’re craving something hearty and soul-warming, skip the takeout, grab your butter and spices, and make this iconic dish at home.

If you try this recipe or one of its variations, tag your creation or drop a comment below. And don’t forget to check out our versions of butter chicken pizza and lemon butter chicken next