Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this rich and flavorful Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe! This comforting Indian-inspired dish features tender, marinated chicken simmered in a bold, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with warming spices, garlic, ginger, and a touch of heat. Whether you serve it with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist, this butter chicken brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy date nights at home, this dish is naturally gluten-free and customizable for spice lovers and mild palates alike. Dairy-free and vegan option.

When it comes to curry dishes in general, I'm always game---it's what I grew up on. I truly enjoy richly creamy dishes that aren't too hard to throw together, but leave me feeling super satisfied. And if you're like me, then this Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe is the one for you, even if you're looking to recreate it into a meatless or vegan option! Seldom do I try Indian-inspired dishes, but this one is one that will have you making this for the entire family and on rotation. And this Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken Bowl, Southern Smothered Chicken, and Healthy Weeknight General Tso's Chicken is definitely one to try next if you're a lover of chicken---although there are also meatless options in the recipe.

The best part about this dish is that it has a little heat to it with an offset of sweetness which doesn't make it too spicy. Plus, you can always reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and cayenne for less heat if desired. However, if you're into spicy flavors like I am, then this Jamaican Spicy 'Pepper' Shrimp is such a must try, regardless of the season. Oh and don't forget this very popular Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts and Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings.

Similar to Jamaican curry dishes that I've made, this butter chicken recipe comes with bold flavors and the curry is out of this world good! Also, you can find all of the ingredients easily as your local grocer, you can add other meat or use meat alternatives if preferred, and there's a dairy-free and vegan option for those who are opting for no dairy or are sensitive to it. It's literally the perfect recipe for the entire family.

Jump to:

• What is the Difference between Butter Chicken and Curry?
• What Spices Go in Butter Chicken?
• What is Butter Chicken Sauce Made of?
• How To Make Homemade Butter Chicken
• Ingredients
• Is Butter Chicken Spicy? How to Adjust the Heat
• Tips for Making the Best Spicy Butter Chicken
• Best Substitutes + Ways to Serve Spicy Butter Chicken with:
• Canned vs. Fresh Tomatoes: What’s Best?
• Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
• How to Make Curry Sauce Thicker?
• What Meats or Meat Alternatives are Best with Curry?
• Can I Make Butter Chicken Ahead of Time?
• Can I Freeze Butter Chicken?
• Dairy-Free or Paleo? Here’s How to Adapt It
• Common Q + A's for this Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe
• More Delicious + Flavorful Chicken Recipes
• MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
• Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe

What is the Difference between Butter Chicken and Curry?

The traditional Indian dish, Butter Chicken, is actually tender chicken chunks that are cooked in a velvety curry sauce. Unlike regular curry, butter chicken is made with a more tomato based-curry that is cooked in butter and not oil---similar to Tikka Masala.

What Spices Go in Butter Chicken?

Like traditional butter chicken, this recipe contains easy to find spices like Garam Masala, turmeric, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, cayenne peppers, and smoked paprika. Of course, you can also add in chili powder instead of red pepper flakes, if desired.

What is Butter Chicken Sauce Made of?

When it comes to this butter chicken, the sauce is the main star of this dish! The best part is that this sauce is only made from onions, garlic, canned diced or crushed tomatoes, ginger, and spices, which creates the most bold, flavorful taste ever!

In this dish, I've learned that the best tip to making the best sauce is to sauté the tomatoes in with the spices and veggies to create a char and fragrance before adding in the liquids and then blending everything.

Then you'll bring everything back to a simmer and for added richness, add more butter to the sauce before adding the beans.

How To Make Homemade Butter Chicken

When it comes to making this easy Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe, the process comes in a few easy steps:

• Begin by prepping your ingredients first! I find it to be a much easier process when I rinse, dice, and chop all ingredients that are needed. This allows you to be best organized and reduces the mess factor.
• Clean and wash your chicken breasts to ensure that they are clean and ready to be seasoned. I like to wash my chicken with both vinegar and lemon to help keep things clean and sanitized.
• Once your chicken is clean, then it's seasoning time! I'm all about seasoning every "layer" of my food, therefore, the chicken gets direct seasoning and so does the curry sauce. Let everything marinate for 5-10 minutes or overnight tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for the best results.
• Add the marinated chicken and cook on each side until seared, about 3-4 minutes each side. Once brown on each side---then set aside.
• Sauté all of your veggies in a skillet (I love using a cast-iron skillet) and add in the spices and herbs.
• Next you add the liquids, simmer slightly and blend! For this curry recipe, you'll need to blend the ingredients together to create a smooth, bright colored curry sauce.
• Finally, stir, season again for taste, + simmer. Now, you'll return the blended sauce to the skillet, stir, season again if needed, add in the seared chicken chunks, stir, and simmer until cooked. It’s magic!

Ingredients

The two components for this spicy butter chicken recipe are the chicken chunks and the curry sauce itself.

Here’s what you need to make this Butter Chicken:

• Chicken breasts. Choose organic whenever possible. Simply cut the chicken breasts into medium-sized cubes or chunks. If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can always use chicken tenderloins which are pre-cut and just cut those into chunks. Use tofu, tempeh, chickpeas or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
• Dried herbs and spices. I love to season my dishes in "layers" which means that marinating your chicken overnight in seasoning is best! Generally, you'll need a combination of salt and All-Purpose seasoning. You can purchase my On Everything All-Purpose Blend for great ease and authentic flavor.
• Onion. You can use red or yellow or white if that’s what you have.
• Butter. Traditionally, this dish uses only butter and not oil. You can use unsalted or salted butter. For vegan option, sub with vegan butter.
• Garlic + ginger. I prefer fresh, but you could substitute with 1 teaspoon garlic powder and ½ teaspoon ground ginger in a pinch.
• Turmeric. This orange spice is packed with antioxidant properties and is a great alternative to curry powder. Read more about the health benefits of turmeric.
• Garam Masala. This is a blend of ground spices used in Indian cuisine. If you don't have this, you can sub with a mix of allspice + cumin.
• Dried herbs and spices. I love a combination of salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper.
• Heavy cream. I recommend organic–always! This adds a velvety-ness to sauce. You can also use evaporated milk or Half & Half. For vegan option, sub with full-fat coconut cream or milk.
• Tomatoes. This is one of the main ingredients in this curry sauce. You can use canned diced tomatoes or dice 3-4 tomatoes yourself or for extra flavor, roughly chop my Herb Roasted Tomatoes.
• Chicken stock. This adds great additional flavor. Use store-bought low-sodium broth or make your own! For added nutrition, add in half the amount in bone broth or substitute with vegetable stock if that's what you have handy.

SHOP MY FAVORITE BAKEWARE ITEMS AND ACCESSORIES FOR THIS BUTTER CHICKEN!

Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe. Everything from my fave dutch pot/oven, wooden spoons, immersion hand-blender, mixing bowls, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Is Butter Chicken Spicy? How to Adjust the Heat

This version brings the perfect level of heat, but it’s customizable to meet the needs of your entire family:

• Mild Version: Skip cayenne + red pepper flakes; use just paprika and a little garam masala
• Extra Spicy: Add more cayenne, use hot chili powder, or stir in harissa/chili paste
• Family-Friendly: Stir in yogurt or extra cream to mellow out spice for kids

Tips for Making the Best Spicy Butter Chicken

Whether you're cooking this for the first time or perfecting your signature version, these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality butter chicken with bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture every time:

Marinate Your Chicken for Maximum Flavor. Even a short 30-minute marinade makes a big difference. For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices for at least an hour—or overnight in the fridge.

Sear the Chicken First. Before simmering in sauce, give the chicken a quick sear in a hot skillet. This locks in juices, builds caramelized flavor, and adds a rich depth to your final dish.

Use a High-Quality Spice Blend. Spices are everything in butter chicken. Use freshly ground or premium blends like garam masala, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Homemade or signature house blends (like my On Everything All-Purpose Blend) elevate the flavor tenfold.

Don’t Rush the Simmer. Once your sauce ingredients come together, let everything simmer low and slow. This allows the spices to bloom and the sauce to reduce into a thick, creamy, flavorful base.

Balance Heat + Creaminess. Butter chicken should be bold, but not overwhelmingly spicy. If it’s too hot, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk. If it’s too mild, add more red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.

Use Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk for a Silky Texture. Don’t skimp on the cream element! Full-fat heavy cream or coconut milk gives your butter chicken its signature velvety finish. Avoid low-fat versions—they tend to curdle or water down the flavor.

Crush or Blend for a Smoother Sauce. Want that luxe restaurant-style sauce? Blend the onion-tomato base before adding cream and chicken. It creates a luscious, uniform texture that coats every bite.

Serve with the Right Pairings. Butter chicken shines with fluffy basmati rice, coconut rice, warm naan, or even roti. For low-carb options, try cauliflower rice or chickpea flatbread. Don’t forget fresh herbs and lemon wedges to finish!

Best Substitutes + Ways to Serve Spicy Butter Chicken with:

• Sweet potatoes or regular potatoes or butternut squash.
• Farro, quinoa, barley, millet, brown rice, coconut rice, couscous, cauliflower rice, bulgar, etc. instead of white basmati rice.
• Raw veggies like red cabbage, rainbow carrots, etc.
• Leafy greens like spinach, kale, collard greens, etc.
• Beans like kidney beans, black beans, white beans, etc.
• Proteins like lentil, tofu, tempeh, mushrooms, etc.
• Naan or Garlic Flatbread: Perfect for scooping and sopping up every drop of sauce.
• Roasted or Sautéed Veggies: Try roasted cauliflower, broccolini or broccoli, green beans, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
• Cucumber Raita or Yogurt Sauce: Balances the heat and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Pickled Onions or Mango Chutney: Adds brightness and a touch of sweetness.

Canned vs. Fresh Tomatoes: What’s Best?

Honestly, both work—here’s how to choose either of them:

• Canned Diced Tomatoes. Quick, easy, and consistent in flavor and texture
• Fresh Tomatoes. Use ripe Roma or plum tomatoes for better flavor; simmer longer to reduce excess water.
• Tomato Puree or Sauce or Crushed. For a smoother sauce, blend before adding cream.
• Roasted Herb Tomatoes. For additional flavor and a nice texture.

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut when you're short for time or just don't feel like handling raw chicken:

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken or shredded chicken
• Add it to the sauce after it has reduced to prevent overcooking
• Still season with garam masala, paprika, or On Everything blend for flavor infusion

How to Make Curry Sauce Thicker?

If you find that your sauce isn't thick enough, I definitely recommend covering the pot and allowing it to simmer a bit more. Usually, with a slow simmer over time, the sauce will automatically thicken. However, if it's truly not doing that, add 1 tablespoon of flour with 3-4 Tbsps warm water to a small cup or bowl, stir until smooth and "milky" and add to the sauce to help aide it.

What Meats or Meat Alternatives are Best with Curry?

If you aren't a fan of chicken, want to switch things up, or just try something else entirely--no worries! The following meats + meat alternatives are perfect with curry and can easily be substituted for chicken:

• Shrimp
• Fish
• Meatballs
• Beef
• Mushrooms
• Beans & Legumes
• Scallops
• Tofu
• Vegetables (i.e. peas, carrots, potatoes, etc.)

Can I Make Butter Chicken Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! In fact, butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed
• Great for meal prep, dinner parties, or next-day lunch

Can I Freeze Butter Chicken?

Yup! This butter chicken recipe is definitely freezer-friendly and works for those who enjoy meal prep. Here's how to best freeze it:

• Let it cool completely
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat over low heat
• Tip: Freeze it without cream and add fresh cream after reheating for best texture

Dairy-Free or Paleo? Here’s How to Adapt It

Need a lighter or allergen-friendly version of Butter Chicken? No worries----make these tweaks:

• Dairy-Free: Swap butter for vegan butter or olive oil, and use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream
• Paleo/Whole30: Use coconut cream, ghee instead of butter, and ensure no added sugars in broth or tomatoes
• Low-Carb/Keto: Serve over cauliflower rice or roasted veggies instead of rice or naan

Common Q + A's for this Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe

More Delicious + Flavorful Chicken Recipes

• Authentic Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta
• Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts
• Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
• Creamy Tuscan 'Marry Me' Chicken
• Best BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich
• Southern Baked Maple Citrus Chicken Legs
• Curry Chicken Roti
• Takeout Orange Chicken
• Creamy Blackened Chicken with Tortellini
• Chicken Parmesan with Vodka Sauce
• Southern Chicken and Waffles
• Nourishing Jamaican Chicken Soup
• Spicy Chili Garlic Ramen with Chicken + Veggies
• One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Orzo

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried my Spicy Butter Chicken Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag me @shanikagrahamwhite on Instagram. I love hearing from you!

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