Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSocial RoostButter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken Recipe

Inspired by Social Roost
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Indian chicken stew served with basmati rice, pickled cauliflower, saag, yogurt, garlic, and naan.

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Ingredients

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Chicken Marinade

Butter Chicken Sauce

Sides

Method

Chicken Marinade

  1. 1

    Marinate the Chicken

    In a large bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, salt, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Butter Chicken Sauce

  1. 2

    Cook the Chicken

    In a large pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the marinated chicken (with the marinade) and cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.

  2. 3

    Add Tomato Puree

    Stir in the tomato puree and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

  3. 4

    Finish with Cream

    Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

  4. 5

    Garnish

    Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Sides

  1. 6

    Cook the Basmati Rice

    Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rice with 400 ml of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

  2. 7

    Prepare the Sides

    Heat the saag in a small pan until warmed through. Warm the naan bread in a dry skillet or wrap in foil and place in the oven for a few minutes.

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