Let’s face it: We’ve all stared blankly at the fridge, wondering, “What’s for dinner?” You want something hearty, flavourful, and loved by the whole family, but you don’t want to spend hours slaving over the stove.
That’s where the easy butter chicken recipe comes in.
Using Gingin’s grassfed free-range chicken, you can whip up a restaurant-quality Indian classic that’s rich, creamy, and packed with comforting spices, all in under an hour.
The secret? Fresh, quality ingredients and a simple step-by-step approach.
Let’s break it all down and show you how to make a butter chicken recipe everyone will love. Ready?
Why This Butter Chicken Recipe Works Every Time
This isn’t just another generic recipe you’ll try once and forget. This one’s a keeper, and here’s why:
- Full of flavour: Uses authentic Indian spices for rich depth.
- Super creamy: Thanks to Greek yoghurt and cream.
- Healthier twist: Made with free-range chicken for leaner, tastier protein.
- Family-friendly: Not too spicy, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you fire up the pan, make sure you’ve got the following on hand:
For the chicken marinade:
- 500g free-range chicken
- 1 cup Greek yoghurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chilli powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
For the sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 400g crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup cream
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander to garnish
Step-by-Step: How to Make Butter Chicken Recipe at Home
Creating the perfect butter chicken doesn’t have to be intimidating. With just a few everyday ingredients and some simple prep, you’ll be serving up a dish that tastes better than takeaway. Follow these easy steps to bring the magic to your kitchen.
1. Marinate the Chicken
Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes (overnight is even better). This is what gives butter chicken its signature depth of flavour.
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large pan or skillet, sear the marinated chicken on high heat until slightly charred. Don’t worry about cooking it fully. It’ll finish in the sauce later.
3. Make the Butter Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté the onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook until fragrant, and your kitchen will smell amazing.
4. Simmer and Blend
Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Then use a stick blender to smooth out the sauce. Optional, but makes a big difference!
5. Creamy Finish
Stir in cream and sugar. Simmer for another 5 –10 minutes, then add the cooked chicken. Let it all simmer until thick, glossy, and irresistible.
Side Dish Ideas to Complete the Meal
Pair your butter chicken with:
- Steamed basmati rice: Light and fluffy to soak up the sauce.
- Garlic naan: Store-bought or homemade, it’s perfect for mopping up every drop.
- Cucumber raita: A cooling yoghurt dip to balance the spice.
- Simple salad: A crisp side salad helps refresh the palate.
Pro Tips for Butter Chicken That Tastes Like Takeaway
Want to level up your cooking game? Here’s how to do it:
- Use full-fat cream. It adds that rich, restaurant-style mouthfeel.
- Let the sauce simmer slowly. Don’t rush the magic.
- Use a cast-iron pan for extra charred flavour on the chicken.
- Don’t skip the sugar. It balances out the acidity in the tomatoes.
Can You Freeze Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day. Let it cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove for best results.
Other Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If butter chicken’s a hit, why not explore other options?
- Beef Curry with Rich Spices: A spicy cousin of butter chicken.
- Chicken Breast in the Instant Pot: Nutrition and taste in one pot.
- 5 Easy Chicken Breast Recipes: Recipes for every occasion.
How to Customise This Butter Chicken Recipe
Want to make it your own?
- Add chopped cashews or almonds for crunch.
- Stir in spinach for extra greens.
- Make it spicy with extra chilli powder or fresh green chillies.
- Swap cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Your New Favourite Recipe Starts with Ginginbeef
There you have it. An easy butter chicken recipe everyone will love, made better with the unbeatable quality of Gingin’s grass-fed free-range chicken.
We believe that great meals start with great ingredients. That’s why we’re proud to offer Australian-raised, ethically farmed chicken that makes every dish shine.
So, are you ready to transform your dinner routine?
Call us on (08) 6186 5450 or simply visit our shop to explore the full range of chicken cuts for the butter chicken recipe. We deliver our free-range chicken across the region and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is butter chicken spicy?
Nope, it’s mild and perfect for all palates. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap yoghurt for coconut yoghurt and cream for coconut cream.
What cut of chicken is best?
Boneless thigh fillets are ideal. They’re juicy, flavourful, and don’t dry out.
How long does butter chicken keep?
Up to 4 days in the fridge, or 3 months in the freezer.
Where can I buy Gingin free-range chicken?
Right here on our website! Delivered across WA.