Ruby's Delicious Butter Chicken Recipe

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 39 views

Hey foodies! Ready to dive into the creamy, dreamy world of butter chicken? If you're a fan of Indian cuisine, then you already know what a treat this dish is. And if you're new to it, buckle up, buttercup, because you're in for a culinary adventure! Today, I'm sharing my absolute favorite Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby, the one that always gets rave reviews and leaves everyone wanting more. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I've tweaked it over the years to perfection, and I'm so excited to finally share it with all of you. It’s easy enough for weeknight cooking, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. So, grab your aprons, and let's get cooking! We will start with the essentials, the ingredients, and then slowly move on to the process.

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a classic Indian dish known for its rich, tomato-based sauce and tender, marinated chicken. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors—creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and with a hint of spice. The best part? It's incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, add extra vegetables, or even swap out the chicken for paneer (Indian cheese) to make a vegetarian version. This Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby has been tested and perfected to deliver that authentic taste that you crave. I've broken down each step to make it as simple as possible, so even if you're a beginner cook, you'll be able to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The key to a truly outstanding butter chicken is in the details – the quality of the ingredients, the marination time, and the patience to let the flavors meld together. Trust me, it’s all worth it. We’ll cover everything from the ingredients you'll need to the step-by-step instructions and some helpful tips and tricks along the way. Get ready to impress your friends and family (or just yourself!) with this incredible dish. I always make sure the ingredients are fresh. I sometimes go to the local market myself for the freshest ingredients. I always try to get the best-quality chicken. The fresh ingredients contribute the most to the flavor. Freshness is the key to deliciousness!

This recipe has been a part of my family for years, and it's a dish that always brings people together. There's something magical about the aroma of butter chicken simmering on the stove that fills the house with warmth and anticipation. I love seeing the smiles on people's faces when they take that first bite. That’s what cooking is all about, right? Sharing delicious food and making memories. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a story, a tradition, and a celebration of flavors. My goal is for you to feel confident and inspired to cook this dish at home. So, let’s get started. Get ready to cook the best butter chicken you’ve ever tasted with Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby.

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. To make this amazing Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby, you’ll need a list of ingredients. Don't worry, it's not a mile long! Most of these ingredients are readily available at your local grocery store. I always emphasize using the freshest ingredients possible, as they make a huge difference in the final flavor of the dish. I will give you some tips on the ingredients, and I will also share some variations on some of the ingredients.

For the Chicken Marinade:

Chicken: 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. Chicken thighs are great because they stay moist and tender. You can also use chicken breasts, but make sure not to overcook them.
Yogurt: 1 cup of plain, full-fat yogurt. Full-fat yogurt adds richness and tang.
Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons. You can make your own by blending fresh ginger and garlic, or you can buy it pre-made.
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed. It brightens up the marinade and adds a zing.
Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon. It's an Indian spice blend that adds warmth and depth.
Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. It gives the chicken a beautiful color and adds a subtle earthy flavor.
Red Chili Powder: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Adjust this based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use less. You can also use Kashmiri chili powder for a vibrant color and mild heat.

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted. This is where the dish gets its name! Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the dish.
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped. It forms the base of the sauce and adds a savory flavor.
Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon. Using freshly prepared paste always gives the dish a good taste.
Tomato Puree: 1 cup. Use good-quality tomato puree. It is important that you use a quality one.
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup. It adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon. This enhances the Indian flavors.
Kashmiri Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon, for color and a touch of heat. This gives the sauce a beautiful red color.
Sugar: 1 teaspoon. It balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Salt: To taste. Season generously, you can always add more later.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish. It adds freshness and a pop of color.

As you can see, the ingredients are quite straightforward. The key is to use fresh ingredients and high-quality spices. The Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby aims to be simple while ensuring great taste. I personally prefer using chicken thighs because they are more succulent. You can also vary the spice level based on your taste. So, whether you love it mild or hot, feel free to customize it to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment! This dish is all about balance, so taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and have fun in the kitchen! The list of ingredients isn’t very long, so it is quite manageable. You can also get creative with the spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part: let's cook this Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby! I've broken down the process into easy-to-follow steps so that you can cook it with confidence. The first thing you need to do is prepare your workspace. Get all your ingredients measured and ready. This is called mise en place. It makes cooking a breeze and ensures everything is within reach when you need it. Ready? Let's go!

Marinating the Chicken:

Combine the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Give it a good whisk until everything is well combined.
Add the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and make sure each piece is well coated. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken. Ensure that every piece is covered with the marinade.
Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, for 2-3 hours, or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. If you have the time, marinating the chicken overnight will give you the best results. However, even 30 minutes will do the trick if you are pressed for time.

Cooking the Chicken:

Cook the Chicken: There are a couple of options for cooking the marinated chicken. You can grill it, bake it, or cook it in a pan. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. If pan-frying, heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it's cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side if grilling or pan-frying, and about 15-20 minutes in the oven.
Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

Making the Butter Chicken Sauce:

Melt the Butter: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure the pan is large enough to hold all the ingredients. The pan should have enough space so that you can stir properly.
Sauté the Onions: Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown. Stir them frequently to prevent burning. This step is important for building the flavor of the sauce.
Add the Aromatics: Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the tomato puree, Kashmiri chili powder, sugar, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly. The smell should be absolutely fantastic at this point!
Add the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Gently stir to coat the chicken with the sauce. Make sure to distribute the chicken evenly in the sauce.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is heated through. Do not boil at this point.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

The cooking process is quite straightforward. If you follow the instructions step by step, you should be able to make this Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby without any problem. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the best homemade butter chicken you’ve ever tasted. Remember, the key is to take your time and enjoy the process. This dish is all about creating layers of flavor, so don’t rush any step. The aroma filling your kitchen will be pure bliss. Make sure you don’t skip marinating the chicken. This is where the magic starts! And be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. You can add more chili powder if you want it spicier. So, enjoy every step of cooking!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Butter Chicken

Alright, guys! Let’s talk about some tips and tricks to make your Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby even better. I’ve picked up these little secrets over the years, and they’ve always made a huge difference in the outcome of my dishes. These tips will help you elevate your butter chicken to a whole new level. Let’s dive in!

Marination is Key: Don't skimp on marinating time. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Marinate overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the chicken, resulting in a more delicious final product. If you're short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating makes a difference, but overnight is ideal. This is the cornerstone of great taste!
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of your butter chicken. Use fresh spices, good-quality tomato puree, and full-fat yogurt and cream. These small details will give your dish a much better taste. This is so important, because it will make the flavor more richer.
Don't Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-frying, keep a close eye on the chicken and cook it just until it’s cooked through. Chicken thighs are more forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great choice for this recipe. If you're using chicken breasts, be extra careful not to overcook them.
Adjust the Spice Level: Don't be afraid to adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a milder butter chicken, use less red chili powder or Kashmiri chili powder. If you like it hot, add more! This is your dish, so make it the way you love it. This is one of the joys of cooking at home.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning. You might need to add more salt, sugar, or chili powder, depending on your preferences. Cooking is all about tasting, adjusting, and making it your own. It is always a good idea to taste as you go. This way you can adjust the taste according to your liking. Every palate is different.
Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heating and prevents the sauce from burning. This is particularly important when simmering the sauce. This will help you to get the perfect result.
Fresh Herbs for the Win: Garnish with fresh cilantro right before serving. It adds freshness, color, and a burst of flavor that complements the creamy, rich sauce perfectly. This brings an amazing touch to the dish.
Serve with the Right Accompaniments: Butter chicken is best enjoyed with basmati rice or naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Also, consider serving it with raita (yogurt with cucumber and spices) to balance the richness and spice. It is always a great choice.

These tips are like little nuggets of gold that will help you create the best Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby possible. Remember to have fun in the kitchen, experiment with flavors, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore. So, gather your ingredients, follow these tips, and get ready to create a meal that will impress everyone. Happy cooking, foodies!

Serving Suggestions

So, you’ve cooked this amazing Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby, and now it's time to serve it up! But what do you serve it with to make it a complete meal? Well, here are some suggestions to help you elevate your butter chicken experience and create a truly memorable dining experience. First, let’s talk about the essentials. What is essential for butter chicken? Of course, the main dish itself!

Basmati Rice: Fluffy, fragrant basmati rice is the perfect accompaniment to butter chicken. It soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully and provides a neutral base to balance the richness of the dish. Make sure to cook your rice perfectly, either on the stovetop or in a rice cooker. The most important thing here is the texture. It should be soft and not too dry. Good basmati rice is the most important part of the experience.
Naan Bread: Warm, soft naan bread is another must-have. Use it to scoop up the delicious sauce and enjoy every last drop. You can buy naan from your local grocery store, or, if you're feeling adventurous, make your own at home. You can also toast the naan for a bit, in order to get a better flavor. The naan is an important element. It's a fundamental part of the meal.
Raita: A cool, creamy raita (yogurt with cucumber, mint, and spices) is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, spicy butter chicken. It adds a refreshing element and helps balance the flavors. It is very easy to make raita at home. You can find many recipes online. It's also a great way to cool down any heat from the chili powder. The raita is a refreshing element for the dish.
Salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers can provide a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad can add some freshness and lightness to the meal. This element is not necessarily needed, but it's a great choice if you are concerned about the weight of the meal.
Side Dishes: Consider serving some other Indian side dishes, such as aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower) or vegetable pakoras (fritters). These will enhance the experience of the meal. These are great choices to further improve the experience. There are so many Indian side dishes. You can go for it!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a complete and satisfying meal that will impress everyone. The right accompaniments can elevate your Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby from delicious to extraordinary. Remember, the best part is sharing this amazing meal with friends and family. So, get ready to enjoy a culinary experience that’s truly unforgettable! Enjoy your meal, foodies!

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! My tried-and-true Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby, ready for you to cook and enjoy. I really hope you enjoyed reading through this recipe, and that you're as excited to make it as I am to share it. This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions; it's a celebration of flavors, a journey through Indian cuisine, and a testament to the joy of cooking. This is a meal that can bring people together!

Remember, cooking is a form of art. Each time you cook, you refine your skills, and you make the dish your own. So, don't be afraid to experiment, adjust the spices to your taste, and have fun in the kitchen. If you want to make it spicy, then go for it! If you don't want to make it too spicy, then adjust the chili powder. The most important thing is that you enjoy the whole experience.

I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and let me know how it goes. Your feedback is very important to me! I would love to hear about your experience. Feel free to reach out with any questions or comments. Cooking should be an adventure. It should be a fun and satisfying experience. I always enjoy cooking, and I hope you will enjoy it too!

So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the magic of Butter Chicken Recipe by Ruby fill your kitchen with the most amazing aroma. Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I hope you like my recipe. If you have any suggestions, feel free to share them with me! It's always great to learn from each other. Enjoy your meal, friends!