Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken Recipe

This Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken Recipe is a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce with butter and cream. Infused with garlic, ginger, garam masala, and smoky paprika, this dish delivers bold, comforting flavors. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying homemade curry night.

What is Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a creamy, mildly spiced Indian curry made with marinated chicken cooked in a velvety tomato-butter sauce. Gordon Ramsay’s version enhances the dish with smoky spices, tangy yogurt, and a smooth, buttery finish, making it restaurant-quality yet easy to prepare at home.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes

• Gordon Ramsay Sausage Rice
• Gordon Ramsay Ham Hock Terrine
• Gordon Ramsay Lancashire Hotpot
• Gordon Ramsay Coleslaw

Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

• Tender, flavorful chicken marinated in yogurt and spices
• Rich, buttery tomato sauce infused with warm spices
• The perfect balance of creaminess and spice
• Pairs beautifully with rice or naan
• A quick, homemade Indian dish that’s better than takeout

Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated

For the Butter Chicken Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, balances acidity)

For Garnish & Serving

• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
• Steamed basmati rice or naan

Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add chicken pieces and coat well.
3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

4. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
5. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
6. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Butter Chicken Sauce

7. In the same pan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter.
8. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes until soft.
9. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
10. Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
11. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.
12. Pour in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13. Return the chicken to the pan and mix well.
14. Stir in heavy cream and honey, then simmer for 5 more minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

15. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dab of butter.
16. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or naan.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

• Steamed Basmati Rice to soak up the creamy sauce
• Garlic Naan for scooping up every bit of flavor
• Cucumber Raita for a cooling contrast
• Mango Chutney to add a sweet and tangy touch
• Roasted Vegetables for a balanced meal

Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor
• Use boneless chicken thighs for the juiciest results
• Simmer the sauce slowly to develop deeper flavors
• Adjust spice levels to your taste by adding or reducing chili powder
• Blend the sauce for a silky smooth texture if preferred

Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

• Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of cream
• Try paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian version
• Add cashew paste for extra creaminess
• Use grilled chicken for a smoky, tandoori-style taste
• Make it keto-friendly by serving with cauliflower rice

Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze for later by storing in portions for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken

• Stovetop method: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream
• Microwave method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between
• Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender

FAQs

Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes! Substitute coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

What’s the best way to make butter chicken extra creamy?

Add an extra tablespoon of butter and more cream for a richer texture.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but fresh marinated chicken absorbs the flavors better.

How do I make butter chicken spicier?

Add extra chili powder, cayenne, or chopped fresh chilies to the sauce.

Final Words

This Gordon Ramsay Butter Chicken Recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home. With perfectly spiced chicken and a buttery, velvety sauce, this dish is a must-try for curry lovers and home cooks alike. Try it today and enjoy an authentic, restaurant-quality Indian dish!

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