Crispy Butter Chicken

Crispy Butter Chicken is a mouthwatering twist on the classic, featuring golden, pan-seared or air-fried chicken coated in a rich, creamy, spiced tomato butter sauce. I love how the crisp texture of the chicken adds a whole new layer of flavor to the comforting and velvety curry sauce. It’s a restaurant-style dish I can easily make at home—and it’s always a showstopper.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this crispy version of butter chicken because it brings together the best of both worlds: juicy, golden-brown chicken with a crispy edge and the deeply flavorful, buttery tomato sauce that defines classic Indian cuisine. It’s bold, comforting, and makes the perfect pairing with rice, naan, or even a low-carb side. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make without sacrificing that authentic flavor.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crispy chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Plain yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Garam masala
• Salt and pepper
• Cornstarch or flour (for coating)
• Oil or ghee (for pan-searing or air-frying)

For the butter sauce:

• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• Heavy cream or coconut cream
• Garam masala
• Chili powder or paprika
• Honey or sugar (to balance the acidity)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken: I combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices in a bowl, then coat the chicken and marinate it for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best flavor).

2. Coat and crisp: I dredge the marinated chicken lightly in cornstarch or flour, then pan-sear it in a hot skillet with oil until crisp and golden on both sides. Alternatively, I air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until crispy.

3. Make the sauce: In a large pan, I melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. I stir in tomato puree, garam masala, chili powder, and a bit of honey. I simmer for 10 minutes until thickened, then pour in the cream and stir until silky.

4. Combine: I add the crispy chicken to the butter sauce and simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld while keeping the chicken’s edges crisp.

5. Garnish and serve: I top it with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice or warm naan.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: About 45 minutes

Variations

• Grilled version: I grill the marinated chicken for smoky flavor, then toss it in the sauce for a BBQ-style butter chicken.

• Spicy kick: I add red chili flakes or use hot paprika to turn up the heat.

• Dairy-free: I use coconut cream and plant-based butter to make this dish completely dairy-free.

• Low-carb option: I serve it over cauliflower rice or with a side of roasted veggies instead of traditional rice.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. The chicken stays surprisingly crisp if reheated gently. For longer storage, I freeze the sauce and chicken separately, then reheat and combine when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, I bake it at 425°F (220°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until golden and cooked through. For even crispier results, I broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

I prefer chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, but breasts work well too—especially if I want a leaner option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead. When it’s time to serve, I cook the chicken fresh and combine it with the warmed sauce.

Is crispy butter chicken the same as traditional butter chicken?

Not exactly—this version adds a crispy coating to the chicken for extra texture, but keeps all the rich, buttery sauce that defines classic butter chicken.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I just cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure it stays crispy.

Conclusion

Crispy Butter Chicken is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for when I want something special yet easy to make. The contrast of crunchy chicken and creamy tomato butter sauce is pure magic. Whether I’m feeding the family or impressing guests, this recipe never fails to deliver bold flavor and comfort in every bite.