If you are craving a rich, comforting dish that perfectly balances bold spices with velvety texture, this Creamy Butter Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. The tender chicken soaks up a luscious tomato-based sauce, enriched with butter and cream, and infused with aromatic spices that sing harmoniously in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a cozy night at home, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction straight to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is where the magic begins. This recipe keeps things simple but impactful, combining fresh and pantry staples to create a symphony of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that make this dish truly unforgettable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Use thighs for juicier results or breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
- Plain yogurt: Acts as a tenderizing marinade base that adds subtle tang and moisture.
- Crushed tomatoes or tomato puree: The heart of the sauce, providing a rich, slightly sweet tomato flavor and vibrant color.
- Unsalted butter: Adds luxurious creaminess and depth to the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Creates the signature silky texture that balances the spices perfectly.
- Garam masala: A fragrant blend of spices that brings warmth and complexity.
- Coriander powder: Adds a subtle citrusy note that brightens the sauce.
- Cumin powder: Provides a smoky, earthy undertone.
- Turmeric powder: Offers a beautiful golden hue and mild bitterness.
- Chili powder: Adjust to your heat preference for a hint of spice.
- Salt: Enhances all the wonderful flavors in the dish.
- Onion, garlic, and ginger: Fresh aromatics that form the flavorful base of the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Butter Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing your chicken pieces with the plain yogurt and a good portion of the garam masala, coriander, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. This marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with those heady spices, so don’t rush this step—let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This patience pays off by making your chicken irresistibly flavorful and juicy once cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a skillet and sauté the marinated chicken until it develops a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This step locks in moisture and adds a subtle smoky depth. Once browned, set the chicken aside—this way, the chicken finishes cooking gently in the sauce later on.
Step 3: Build the Spiced Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in chopped onions, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. As these aromatics soften and release their fragrance, add the crushed tomatoes along with the rest of the spices. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes to marry the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly. The kitchen will fill with the inviting scent of warm spices and ripe tomato goodness, so be ready to savor the anticipation.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Cream
Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, submerging them in the simmering tomato sauce. Cook gently until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and butter until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or a little more chili powder if you want an extra kick. The sauce should be silky, rich, and full-bodied—a perfect hug on a plate.
How to Serve Creamy Butter Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or fenugreek leaves over the top adds a bright, herbal contrast that livens up every bite. For an extra dash of indulgence, a drizzle of cream or a few dots of melted butter just before serving can elevate the presentation and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice to soak up all that luscious sauce. Alternatively, warm naan or roti make fantastic accompaniments that you can use to scoop up the chicken and sauce, turning every forkful into a delicious hand-held adventure.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the Creamy Butter Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe in a rustic, deep serving dish garnished with vibrant herbs and served alongside an assortment of colorful vegetables or lentils. Or get creative and stuff the cooked chicken into pita pockets with fresh cucumber and yogurt sauce for a fun twist that keeps the spirit of the dish alive in a new form.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover butter chicken tastes fantastic the next day as the flavors continue to meld in the fridge. Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to three days for safe and delicious enjoyment.
Freezing
You can freeze Creamy Butter Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe in portions for up to three months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. When ready to eat, thaw slowly in the fridge overnight for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from curdling. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or cream to bring back the perfect silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine but tend to be leaner and can dry out faster, so watch your cooking time carefully to keep them tender and juicy.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Marinating is highly recommended as it tenderizes the meat and infuses the chicken with the aromatic spices, greatly enhancing the final flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use coconut milk or a combination of milk and cornstarch, but the cream is what gives the sauce its signature rich and velvety texture.
How spicy is this recipe?
The chili powder is adjustable, so you can make it mild or pack in some heat depending on your preference. The other spices provide warmth without overwhelming spice.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Yes! You can make the sauce and marinate the chicken earlier in the day or the night before, then finish cooking just before serving. It’s a great way to reduce stress while still serving something impressive.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a homemade Creamy Butter Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that welcomes you with familiar warmth, satisfying tastes, and colorful aromas. I encourage you to dive in and make it your own—it’s a delicious way to bring a little joy and spice into everyday life or impress guests with your culinary skills.
Print
Creamy Butter Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
A rich and creamy Butter Chicken recipe featuring marinated chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and butter sauce, finished with heavy cream for a luscious, comforting Indian-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- Chili powder, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken with plain yogurt, garam masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to develop flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of the butter or oil, and sauté the marinated chicken pieces until they turn golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger until fragrant and onions are translucent. Then add the crushed tomatoes along with any remaining spices from the marinade and stir. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10 minutes, which helps meld the flavors and thickens the sauce.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream to enrich the sauce and create a smooth, creamy texture. Adjust seasoning with salt and chili powder if needed, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more tender and juicy results compared to breasts.
- If you prefer a less creamy sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly.
- The dish pairs well with basmati rice or warm naan bread.
- Adjust chili powder based on your preferred spice level.
