Tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a rich, velvety tomato-butter sauce – that’s what makes Creamy Butter Chicken such an irresistible comfort food. The combination of warm spices, creamy texture, and bold flavor brings a restaurant-quality dish right to your dinner table. It’s deeply satisfying, incredibly easy to make, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite.

This dish is rooted in Indian cuisine but simplified for home cooks without compromising its robust flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend indulgence, this creamy butter chicken delivers in every way – and it pairs beautifully with everything from fluffy basmati rice to warm naan bread.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butter Chicken

Rich and comforting: With its velvety sauce and tender chicken, this dish wraps you in warmth.
Family-friendly: It’s flavorful without being overly spicy, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Better than takeout: No need for delivery when you can whip up something this good in your kitchen.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this recipe, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are your best bet. They stay incredibly moist and flavorful through the cooking process. However, if you prefer boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, those will work too. Just keep an eye on the cook time – chicken breasts tend to dry out faster. You can even use leftover cooked chicken and simmer it in the sauce to soak up all the buttery flavor.

Ingredients for the Creamy Butter Chicken

Choosing the right ingredients is key to creating the luscious, crave-worthy flavor of this dish. Each one plays an important role:

Chicken thighs: Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, these form the heart of the dish.
Butter: The essential base for the sauce, giving it its rich, silky finish.
Garlic and ginger: Add depth and aroma that build the flavor foundation.
Tomato paste: Brings a rich, tangy depth and vibrant color.
Heavy cream: Smooths everything out, making the sauce luxuriously creamy.
Garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika: This spice mix offers a perfect balance of warmth and complexity.
Salt and pepper: To enhance and round out all the flavors.
Fresh cilantro: For a pop of color and bright finish.

How To Make the Creamy Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the butter. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Add tomato paste and let it caramelize slightly.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Toast the spices for a minute to unlock their full flavor.

Step 4: Stir in Cream

Pour in the heavy cream, whisking until fully combined with the tomato mixture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Transfer the skillet to a 375°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Butter Chicken

This recipe yields enough to generously serve 4 to 6 people, depending on your side dishes. The chicken stays moist and the sauce keeps its luxurious texture, making it perfect for serving family-style.

To store leftovers, cool the dish completely and transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often.

You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What to Serve With Creamy Butter Chicken?

Fluffy Basmati Rice

The classic choice to soak up every drop of that rich sauce.

Garlic Naan

Perfect for scooping and wiping your plate clean.

Roasted Cauliflower

Adds a toasty crunch and balances out the richness.

Cucumber Raita

A refreshing, cooling contrast to the warm spices.

Spiced Lentils (Dal)

Protein-packed and comforting, they’re a natural pairing.

Sautéed Spinach

Quick and light, ideal to round out the meal.

Mango Chutney

A sweet and tangy condiment that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love cozy, comforting chicken recipes like this one, check out some of our other crowd-pleasing favorites:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for an ultra-creamy, dreamy weeknight meal.
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs if you’re in the mood for bite-sized fun.
Chicken Mushroom Alfredo that brings together pasta and savory mushrooms.
Doritos Chicken Casserole for a bold and cheesy twist.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re craving something rich and quick.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a spicier version? Add a swirl of yogurt? Maybe served it with naan fresh off the skillet?

I love seeing your kitchen twists and tips. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook smarter and eat better.

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