Butter Chicken Sauce

Rich, creamy, and gently spiced, Butter Chicken Sauce is the heart of one of the world’s most beloved Indian dishes. This velvety tomato-based sauce brings together fragrant spices and a luscious buttery richness that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or even roasted veggies. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate that iconic flavor at home, you’re in the right place.

Tags / Categories

• Flavor Profile: Creamy, mildly spiced, buttery
• Main Ingredients: Tomato, butter, cream, spices
• Region: North Indian cuisine
• Usage: Curry base, dipping sauce, marinade

Quick Info Box

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate
• Yield: About 3 cups (serves 4)

Ingredients List

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra to finish)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for color and subtle smokiness)
• 1 small green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Creating the Perfect Butter Chicken Sauce

Start by melting the butter in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. The aroma of butter warming up is the first promise of the rich sauce to come. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden — patience here pays off as it builds the sauce’s base flavor. Next, add the garlic, ginger, and green chili, stirring until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Your kitchen will start smelling amazing right about now.

Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Toast those spices just enough to release their oils and deepen their flavors — don’t rush this step, and stir frequently so nothing burns. After that, pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the tomato to break down and the flavors to marry beautifully. Don’t stress if it’s a little chunky; the texture adds charm.

When the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the cream and a teaspoon of sugar. The cream will mellow the acidity, transforming the sauce into the luscious, silky texture you’re aiming for. Season with salt to taste and give it a final stir. If you like things extra buttery (who doesn’t?), swirl in a tablespoon more of cold butter right before serving — it makes everything glisten and taste even more indulgent.

Serving Suggestions & Beyond

This sauce shines most famously with tender grilled chicken pieces, the original Butter Chicken or Murgh Makhani. But don’t limit yourself — it’s just as friendly with paneer cubes for a vegetarian twist, or roasted cauliflower and chickpeas for a hearty vegan plate (swap cream for coconut, butter for oil). Spoon it over naan bread for dipping, swirl it into rice for an extra boost, or transform leftovers into a luscious dip for crunchy snacks.

Origin & History

Butter Chicken originated in Delhi in the 1950s, developed by the legendary chefs at the famous Moti Mahal restaurant. It was a clever way to use leftover tandoori chicken, simmering it in a buttery tomato gravy to keep it moist and flavorful. The dish encapsulates the Indo-Persian fusion of Indian spices with the richness of cream and butter — a symbol of innovation that became a global favorite. Today, butter chicken sauce is cherished not just in India but worldwide, representing comfort, warmth, and a little culinary magic.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with ghee or oil, and cream with coconut or cashew cream for a luscious vegan version.
• Spice Level: Omit the green chili for a milder sauce, or add extra chili powder or chopped fresh chilies if you like a fiery kick.
• Tomato Base: Use fresh, blanched, and pureed tomatoes for a fresher tang, or swap with tomato sauce in a pinch, adjusting sweetness accordingly.
• Richness Boost: Add a spoonful of crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for that classic aromatic punch only Butter Chicken can offer.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This sauce actually tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if it has thickened too much. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months — thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Pro tip: freeze without cream and add it fresh while reheating for the best texture.

Nutritional Information (per 1/4 cup serving)

• Calories: ~130
• Fat: 11g (mostly from butter and cream)
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

Related Sauces / Try Next

• Tikka Masala Sauce – A spicier cousin with yogurt and smoky spice notes.
• Korma Sauce – Another creamy delight, rich with nuts and cardamom.
• Palak Sauce (Spinach-Based) – For a healthy twist with earthy greens and subtle spices.

FAQ

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Use about 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, blanch and peel them, then puree. This will give a fresher taste but might take a bit longer to cook down.

Q: What’s the best way to thicken Butter Chicken Sauce if it’s too runny?
A: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce it. Alternatively, a spoonful of tomato paste adds richness and thickness.

Q: Is Butter Chicken Sauce spicy?
A: It’s generally mild and creamy, but you can easily adjust the heat by controlling the amount of chili used or adding a pinch of cayenne for more kick.

In summary, Butter Chicken Sauce marries simple ingredients and aromatic spices into a luxurious, comforting sauce that elevates any meal. Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or dunking, this sauce transforms dishes with its iconic creamy warmth. Give it a try, and soon enough, your kitchen will be filled with those cozy, irresistible aromas worthy of a Michelin-star restaurant—or just your very own dinner table.