If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors, then butter chicken is likely one of your favorite dishes. This iconic Indian meal has made its way into kitchens around the world, and for a good reason! Today, we bring you not just one, but ten irresistible recipes for butter chicken that will elevate your dinner game. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these recipes have something for everyone.
1. Classic Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 1 can tomato puree (400g)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Butter, garlic, ginger, spices (cumin, coriander, garam masala)
Instructions:
Marinate chicken in yogurt and spices for at least an hour. In a pan, melt butter and sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and the marinated chicken, cooking until browned. Stir in the tomato puree and heavy cream, simmering until thickened. Serve with naan or rice.
2. Spicy Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken thighs
- 1 cup yogurt
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
Marinate chicken in yogurt, chili powder, and ginger-garlic paste overnight. In a pan, sear the chicken and then add coconut milk. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
3. Butter Chicken with Cashew Cream
Ingredients:
- 500g bite-sized chicken pieces
- 1/2 cup cashews, soaked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can tomato sauce
- Spices
Instructions:
Make cashew cream by blending soaked cashews with water until smooth. Cook onions until golden, add chicken and spices, then stir in tomato sauce and cashew cream. Simmer until thickened.
4. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken breast
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Onion, garlic, ginger, spices
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Once done, shred the chicken and mix back into the sauce. Serve with rice.
5. Butter Chicken Tacos
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Soft tortillas
- Onion, cilantro, lime
Instructions:
Make the butter chicken as per the classic recipe. Warm the tortillas and serve the butter chicken in them, topped with diced onions and cilantro.
6. Butter Chicken Pizza
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- 500g shredded butter chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Fresh coriander for topping
Instructions:
Roll out the pizza dough and spread cooked butter chicken over the base. Top with mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese is bubbly. Garnish with coriander.
7. Butter Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- Tomatoes, spices
Instructions:
In a pot, combine all ingredients and simmer until the chicken is cooked. Blend until smooth if desired, and serve with naan for dipping.
8. Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 300g pasta of choice
- 500g butter chicken
- 1 cup cream
Instructions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pot, heat the butter chicken and stir in the cream. Toss in the cooked pasta. Serve hot.
9. Butter Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 500g butter chicken
- 1 cup cheese
Instructions:
Layer cooked rice in a baking dish, pour over butter chicken, and sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 180°C (350°F) until bubbly and golden.
10. Vegan Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 500g tofu, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Tomato puree, spices
Instructions:
Sauté tofu until golden. Add tomato puree and spices, then stir in coconut milk. Simmer until thickened. Serve with rice or quinoa.
Conclusion
Butter chicken is undoubtedly a versatile dish that can cater to many tastes and dietary preferences. Whether made traditionally or with modern twists, each recipe offers a unique take on this beloved favorite. You can mix it up based on ingredients you have or your own preferences. We hope you enjoy experimenting with these recipes, bringing a little taste of India to your dinner table tonight!
FAQs
1. Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Butter chicken can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
2. What can I serve with butter chicken?
Common pairings include naan, rice, or even vegetables. You can also try it in tacos or on pizza!
3. Is there a vegetarian version of butter chicken?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas, and follow the same recipe for a delicious vegetarian option.
4. How do I make butter chicken milder?
To make the dish milder, reduce the amount of spices you use, particularly chili powder, and incorporate more cream or yogurt.





