Creamy Butter Chicken with Tomato Sauce and Spices

When you crave something indulgent yet vibrant, this Creamy Butter Chicken with Tomato Sauce and Spices is like a warm hug on your plate. Tender morsels of chicken bathed in a rich, spiced tomato gravy mingle with a swirl of velvety double cream and a generous knob of butter. Every bite teases the senses with fragrant garam masala, a hint of cinnamon, and just the right kick from cayenne pepper. I still remember the first time I served this to friends—they closed their eyes between bites, whispers of “so good” filling the room, and suddenly I realized home cooking could feel as luxurious as a restaurant meal.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dinner feast that’s perfect for an intermediate home cook looking to impress. The marinade, a tangy blend of yogurt and lemon juice, works its magic for at least an hour (overnight if you can spare the time), infusing each chicken piece with deep flavor. With about 20 minutes of active preparation, 40 minutes of simmering, and an hour of rest time, this dish delivers a hearty 610 calories per serving—making it just right for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re pairing it with fluffy basmati rice or soft, warm naan, you’ll find yourself savoring every mouthful and reminiscing about those cozy nights spent around the table with loved ones.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY BUTTER CHICKEN WITH TOMATO SAUCE AND SPICES

Before we get cooking, let’s talk about the stars of the show. Each ingredient has its own role, contributing layers of flavor, creaminess, and texture to create that signature butter chicken experience.

• Boneless chicken

Bite-sized pieces of tender meat that soak up every bit of marinade, remaining juicy and succulent as they simmer in the spiced sauce.

• Plain yogurt

Adds creaminess to the marinade while tenderizing the chicken; its tang balances the richness of butter and cream.

• Lemon juice

Provides bright acidity in the marinade, cutting through the richness and helping the yogurt to work its tenderizing magic.

• Cumin

Gives an earthy warmth and a subtle bitterness that deepens the overall flavor profile.

• Cinnamon

Lends a sweet, woody aroma that complements the tangy tomato base for an exotic twist.

• Cayenne pepper

Brings the heat—adjust to your spice preference for a gentle warmth or a fiery kick.

• Freshly ground black pepper

Adds a sharp, peppery bite that layers with cayenne for balancing heat.

• Ginger paste

Contributes a peppery zest and slight sweetness, enhancing both the marinade and final sauce.

• Salt

Essential for unlocking flavors, ensuring each spice and ingredient lands perfectly on your palate.

• Butter

Creates richness and lends that signature silky mouthfeel; it also helps sauté the aromatics.

• Onion

When finely chopped and cooked until golden, it forms a sweet and savory base for the sauce.

• Garlic

Minced to release its pungent flavor, it infuses the dish with depth and warmth.

• Green chilies

Slit lengthwise to release gentle heat and a fresh, grassy aroma directly into the cooking juices.

• Garam masala

A fragrant blend of warming spices (cloves, cardamom, cumin) that elevates the sauce with complexity.

• Coriander powder

Adds citrusy, nutty undertones that brighten the heavy cream and tomato combination.

• Tomato puree

The heart of the sauce, delivering a rich, tangy base that complements the spices.

• Double cream

Swirled in at the end to achieve a luscious, smooth finish that coats the chicken in utter luxury.

• Fresh coriander leaves

A final garnish that adds a burst of herbal freshness and color contrast.

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY BUTTER CHICKEN WITH TOMATO SAUCE AND SPICES

Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring all these elements together! The process is straightforward but packed with flavor-building moments. Follow each step, and you’ll be rewarded with a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, black pepper, ginger paste, and salt until smooth. This marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps keep it tender during cooking.

2. Add the boneless chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing thoroughly so each bite is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or better yet, overnight—to allow those spices to penetrate deeply.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter until it’s frothy and begins to brown at the edges. This step adds a nutty note to your base.

4. Add the onion, garlic, and green chilies to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent and start to take on golden edges.

5. Stir in the marinated chicken pieces, spreading them out in a single layer. Let them seal on one side and develop a slight brown edge, then stir to brown another side—this locks in flavor.

6. Sprinkle in the garam masala and coriander powder, stirring well to coat the chicken and onions so the aroma can bloom.

7. Pour in the tomato puree, stirring to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

8. Reduce the heat to low, pour in the double cream, and stir until the sauce becomes silky and rich, letting it cook for an additional 5 minutes.

9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves, scattering them on top for a pop of color and freshness.

10. Serve hot with rice or naan bread, scooping up every bit of that creamy, spiced sauce.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY BUTTER CHICKEN WITH TOMATO SAUCE AND SPICES

This Butter Chicken shines best when you pair it thoughtfully. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal and make every bite memorable:

• Serve alongside steamed basmati rice for a classic combination. The fluffy grains soak up the velvety sauce, creating a perfect bite of tender chicken, tangy tomato, and aromatic spices every time.
• Pair with warm garlic naan, lightly brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with fresh parsley or cilantro. Tear off a piece of bread, scoop up the curry, and enjoy that irresistible mix of crispy-chewy textures.
• Create a rice bowl by layering cooked quinoa or brown rice, fresh cucumber ribbons, cherry tomatoes, and a generous ladle of butter chicken on top. A drizzle of yogurt and a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish.
• Offer a side salad of crisp lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and a simple lemon vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch balance out the creaminess, making each mouthful feel light and cohesive.

HOW TO STORE CREAMY BUTTER CHICKEN WITH TOMATO SAUCE AND SPICES

Storing your butter chicken properly preserves its flavors and textures, so you can enjoy leftovers or prep meals in advance without compromise.

• Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: Portion the cooled curry into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags. Freeze flat for efficient storage. It will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat slowly on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
• Meal prep jars: Layer cooled rice on the bottom of glass mason jars, spoon butter chicken on top, and seal. Store in the fridge for grab-and-go lunches. When ready, simply heat the jar in the microwave (lid off) or empty into a pan.
• Spice refresh: If you find the reheated sauce has lost a bit of its zing, stir in a pinch of garam masala or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to revive the flavors.

CONCLUSION

I hope this deep dive into Creamy Butter Chicken with Tomato Sauce and Spices has sparked your inner chef and given you the confidence to transform everyday ingredients into a dinner worthy of celebration. From the tangy yogurt-lemon marinade to the lush swirl of double cream, each step layers flavor until you end up with a sauce so luxurious you’ll want to spoon it straight from the pot. Whether you’re hosting friends or tucking into a cozy family meal, this intermediate-level recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort and culinary flair. The prep time of about 20 minutes, a simmer of 40 minutes, and an hour of marinating will reward you with succulent chicken in a fragrant, velvety sauce that tastes like you’ve been working in the kitchen all day—when in reality, much of the time is hands-off.

Feel free to print this article and keep it in your recipe binder for future feasts, or save it as a digital reference when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner. Below you’ll find a handy FAQ section to troubleshoot common questions, from adjusting spice levels to reheating tips. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment sharing your experience, ask any questions you have, or offer feedback on how you personalized the dish. Cooking is all about sharing stories and flavors, so I can’t wait to hear how this Creamy Butter Chicken becomes a new favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Creamy Butter Chicken with Tomato Sauce and Spices

Author: Sophie Reynolds Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 40 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 2 hrs

Calories: 610

Description

This classic butter chicken features tender chicken morsels bathed in spiced tomato gravy, enriched with creamy butter sauce and fragrant garam masala, perfect with naan or rice

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 kg boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon ginger paste

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise

• 2 teaspoons garam masala

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1 cup tomato puree

• 100 ml double cream

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, black pepper, ginger paste, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
4. Add the onions, garlic, and green chilies to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent and beginning to brown.
5. Stir in the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are sealed and have a slight brown edge.
6. Add the garam masala and coriander powder. Stir to combine the spices with the chicken and onions.
7. Pour in the tomato puree and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the double cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and rich.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
10. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Note

• Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor profile.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
• This dish can be frozen and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Butter chicken is traditionally paired with naan or basmati rice for a complete meal.

Keywords: butter chicken, Indian recipes, creamy tomato chicken, spiced chicken, garam masala, weeknight dinner