Butter Chicken with Naan

Butter Chicken with Naan is one of the most beloved and iconic dishes of Indian cuisine, cherished around the world for its rich, creamy texture and beautifully balanced flavors. Originating in North India, this dish combines tender, marinated chicken pieces simmered in a velvety tomato-butter gravy infused with aromatic spices. Paired with soft, pillowy naan bread, it creates a comforting, indulgent meal that feels both festive and deeply satisfying.

This recipe brings restaurant-style Butter Chicken to your home kitchen while keeping the process approachable and rewarding. The gentle smokiness of grilled or pan-seared chicken, combined with the luscious buttery sauce, makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a special family dinner or a weekend treat, Butter Chicken with Naan is always a showstopper.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly balances richness with warmth and spice without being overpowering. The creamy tomato-based gravy is luxurious yet comforting, and the chicken remains incredibly juicy thanks to its yogurt-based marinade. Paired with freshly made naan, it turns a simple meal into an unforgettable dining experience. This dish never fails to impress guests and always brings a sense of celebration to the table.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• It’s a global favorite and a cornerstone of Indian cuisine
• Perfect for special occasions, parties, or family dinners
• The flavors are rich, creamy, and mildly spiced, making it universally appealing
• Pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or rice
• Tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: North Indian
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus marination time)
• Marination Time: 2–8 hours (recommended)
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes (excluding marination)
• Servings: 4
• Calories (Approx.):
  • Butter Chicken: 450–500 kcal per serving
  • Naan: 260–300 kcal per piece

Ingredients

For Chicken Marinade

• 600 g boneless chicken (thighs or breast), cut into pieces
• ½ cup thick yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1½ tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp oil or melted butter

For Butter Chicken Gravy

• 3 tbsp butter (preferably unsalted)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups tomato puree (fresh or canned)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1½ tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ cup fresh cream
• 1 tsp sugar or honey (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
• ½ cup water (as needed)

For Naan (Optional – Homemade)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup yogurt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp oil
• Butter for brushing

Cooking Directions

1. Marinate the chicken and allow it to rest
2. Cook or grill the chicken until lightly charred
3. Prepare the buttery tomato gravy
4. Simmer chicken in the gravy
5. Finish with cream and kasuri methi
6. Serve hot with naan

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, spices, lemon juice, salt, and oil. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet with a little oil. Cook marinated chicken on medium-high heat until lightly charred and nearly cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Base

Heat butter and oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomato Puree & Spices

Stir in tomato puree, chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook until butter separates from the sauce.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

For a silky texture, cool slightly and blend the gravy, then return it to the pan.

Step 6: Simmer Chicken

Add cooked chicken and water as needed. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.

Step 7: Finish the Dish

Add cream, sugar (if using), garam masala, and crushed kasuri methi. Stir gently and cook for 2–3 minutes.

How to Serve Butter Chicken with Naan

• Serve hot garnished with cream and coriander
• Pair with buttery naan, garlic naan, or tandoori roti
• Add sliced onions, lemon wedges, and cucumber salad on the side
• Can also be served with jeera rice or steamed basmati rice

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness
• Do not skip kasuri methi—it adds signature aroma
• Balance acidity with a touch of cream or sugar
• Cook gravy slowly for deeper flavor
• Fresh butter enhances authenticity

Variations (Detailed)

1. Restaurant-Style Smoky Butter Chicken
   Add a charcoal smoke (dhungar method) for authentic flavor.
2. Spicy Butter Chicken
   Increase chili powder or add green chilies.
3. Healthier Butter Chicken
   Use less butter and replace cream with cashew paste or milk.
4. Paneer Butter Masala
   Substitute chicken with paneer cubes.
5. Dairy-Free Version
   Use coconut cream and vegan butter.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

• Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days

Freezing

• Freeze gravy (without cream) for up to 2 months
• Add cream after reheating for best taste

Reheating

• Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of water or cream

Special Equipment Needed

• Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai
• Blender (optional for smooth gravy)
• Grill pan or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula

Conclusion

Butter Chicken with Naan is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort, tradition, and irresistible flavor. With its creamy tomato gravy, tender chicken, and soft naan, this dish offers the perfect balance of richness and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or simply treating yourself, this recipe guarantees satisfaction every single time. Once you make it at home, it’s sure to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again.