Best Butter Chicken Recipe - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Medium

Best Butter Chicken Recipe

(2,847)
1 hr6380 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|February 10, 2024

This is the ultimate Butter Chicken recipe — rich, creamy, and bursting with aromatic spices. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in yogurt and spices, then simmered in a velvety tomato-butter sauce that is impossibly smooth and flavourful. This restaurant-quality Indian classic is surprisingly easy to make at home and tastes even better than takeout. Serve it over fluffy basmati rice with warm naan bread for the perfect comfort meal. A Canadian favourite that has become a weeknight staple in homes across the country.

butter-chickenindian-chickenchicken-currycreamy-chickenbutter-chicken-recipe

Ingredients

Servings:
6

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Bring to Room Temperature

Take chicken out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking. Cold chicken straight from the fridge cooks unevenly — the outside overcooks while the centre stays underdone.

About This Recipe

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani as it's known in India, is a dish that has truly found its way into the hearts of Canadians. The magic lies in the marination of tender chicken thighs in yogurt and a medley of spices, which not only infuses the meat with flavor but also ensures it stays juicy during cooking. The addition of a velvety butter and tomato sauce is what elevates this dish from comforting home cooking to something truly special, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Tips for the Best Best Butter Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best Butter Chicken, be meticulous with your marination. Marinate the chicken for at least an hour, or even overnight if time allows, as this will enhance the flavor and tenderness. When cooking, aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for the chicken, ensuring it remains succulent. Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers; the key is to allow it to thicken beautifully without burning, stirring occasionally for the best results.

What to Serve With It

For a truly Canadian experience, serve your Butter Chicken over fluffy basmati rice, allowing the creamy sauce to soak into every grain. Don’t forget to include warm naan bread on the side for dipping; it’s perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. A fresh cucumber salad or a side of sautéed spinach adds a nice crunch and balance to the meal, making it a comforting yet vibrant feast.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if necessary to keep it from drying out. If you want to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it will keep for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Per Serving

380
Calories
32g
Protein
18g
Fat
22g
Carbs
Fiber3g
Sugar8g
Sodium720mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?+

While chicken breasts can be used, they may dry out more easily than thighs. If you prefer breasts, consider marinating them slightly longer and cooking them over lower heat to retain moisture.

Is there a vegetarian option for Butter Chicken?+

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas and follow the same cooking method to achieve a delicious vegetarian Butter Chicken that’s equally satisfying.

How can I make it spicier?+

If you like your Butter Chicken with a kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add some finely chopped green chilies during cooking. Just be cautious, as the heat can build up quickly!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?+

Yes! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 4-5 medium ones, blanched and peeled, then puréed. Just ensure they are well-cooked to achieve that rich sauce consistency.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?+

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use coconut milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and creaminess of the dish slightly.

Reviews

4.9 / 5 (2,847 reviews)
Lauren X.
May 23, 2025

Best chicken recipe I have tried in a long time.

Ashley W.
Oct 17, 2025

Easy to follow and turned out amazing. A new favourite.

Brandon J.
Jul 27, 2025

Simple ingredients, amazing results. Highly recommend.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
30 min
Cook:
30 min
Total:
1 hr
Servings:
6
Difficulty:
Medium

Pro Tips

  • 1Marinate overnight for maximum flavour.
  • 2Use an immersion blender for restaurant-smooth sauce.
  • 3Add a pinch of dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for authentic flavour.

Variations

  • Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Add cashew paste for extra richness.
  • Make it spicier with extra chili powder or fresh green chilies.

Asian-Inspired Chicken

Best Butter Chicken Recipe

This is THE Best Butter Chicken Recipe recipe you have been looking for.

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Best Butter Chicken Recipe - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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