Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken is a rich, indulgent dish bursting with flavor and made from high-quality ingredients, delivering a creamy, spicy experience that will transport your taste buds straight to India.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken

Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken (also known as Murgh Makhani) is a reimagined version of the beloved traditional Indian dish. This version features tender chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and yogurt, which is then cooked in a luscious, buttery tomato sauce.

The dish is creamy, rich, and subtly spiced, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture that elevates the classic comfort food. The chicken is soaked in a spiced marinade that tenderizes it while infusing it with flavor, and then it’s gently simmered in a velvety sauce made of tomatoes, butter, and cream, creating an irresistible meal that pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan.

Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken at home, you will need the following ingredients:

• For The Chicken Marinade

  • 500g (about 1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
  • 3 tablespoons plain yogurt (preferably full-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt, to taste

• For The Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or double cream
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves for garnish

Equipment Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
• Frying pan or sauté pan for cooking the chicken
• Large saucepan for simmering the sauce
• Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for chopping the ingredients
• Measuring spoons and cups for accuracy in spices and ingredients
• Grater for the ginger

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken?

1. Marinate The Chicken

   • Start by preparing the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

2. Cook The Chicken

   • Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned on the outside but not necessarily fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. Prepare The Sauce

   • In the same pan, melt the remaining butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then, add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add The Spices And Tomatoes

   • Stir in the ground cumin, garam masala, and paprika. Cook for a minute, allowing the spices to bloom. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and deepens in flavor.

5. Combine The Chicken And Cream

   • Add the partially cooked chicken back into the pan with the tomato sauce. Stir to combine, and then pour in the cream. Reduce the heat and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve

   • Once the butter chicken is ready, serve it hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness and color.

Expert Tips

1. Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: Marinating the chicken overnight yields the most flavorful results, allowing the spices to fully penetrate the meat.
2. Use Bone-In Chicken for Richer Flavor: While boneless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly, using bone-in chicken can impart an even richer, more authentic flavor to the dish.
3. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder and garam masala. Alternatively, increase the spices to suit your taste.
4. Use Ghee for Extra Authenticity: For an authentic touch, substitute butter with ghee (clarified butter), which enhances the flavor and adds a traditional richness.
5. Simmer Slowly: Take your time simmering the sauce. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and develop to their full potential.

Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken is a comforting, indulgent dish that brings together a beautiful blend of spices, rich creaminess, and tender chicken. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just beginning to experiment in the kitchen, this recipe offers both a rewarding and satisfying cooking experience.

With its smooth, buttery tomato sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it is sure to become a staple in your home-cooked meals. Pair it with warm naan or fluffy rice, and you’ll have a dish worthy of any dinner table.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken

Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken recipe is an incredible crowd-pleaser, known for its rich and flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices. However, as with any beloved dish, there are several ways to give it a personal twist or cater to dietary preferences. Let’s explore some easy recipe variations that will make your butter chicken even more exciting!

1. Spicy Butter Chicken: If you love heat, you can easily amp up the spice level by adding more green chilies, chili powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper. You could also include a small amount of red chili paste, which would give the dish a deeper flavor. Adjust the spices to your taste-just remember, the heat should complement the creaminess, not overpower it!
2. Vegetarian Butter ‘Chicken’: You can make this dish vegetarian by swapping chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower, paneer, or mushrooms. These vegetables absorb the sauce well and provide a satisfying texture. Cauliflower works especially well as it mimics the tender feel of chicken, and it will add a subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
3. Vegan Butter Chicken: For a completely plant-based version, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and swap the dairy ingredients with coconut milk and vegan butter. The coconut milk will give the sauce a creamy consistency, while the vegan butter will maintain the dish’s signature richness. You can use cashews to thicken the sauce as well.
4. Butter Chicken with a Twist of Coconut: Adding coconut milk or coconut cream to your butter chicken is an easy way to bring a tropical twist to the dish. Coconut adds a slight sweetness and depth, balancing the spices beautifully. This variation is perfect if you love a bit of extra richness in your sauce.
5. Butter Chicken with Fenugreek Leaves: Fenugreek, or methi, leaves are often used in Indian cuisine for their slightly bitter, earthy flavor. Adding a handful of dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) at the end of cooking will elevate your butter chicken with a distinct and aromatic taste. Fenugreek is often found in Indian butter chicken recipes and adds an authentic touch.
6. Low-Fat Butter Chicken: If you’re looking to make a healthier version of butter chicken, reduce the amount of butter and cream. Use Greek yogurt or a low-fat version of the cream to achieve a creamy texture without the excess fat. You can also cut down on the oil and opt for grilling or baking the chicken instead of frying it.
7. Butter Chicken with Green Bell Pepper: Adding green bell peppers to the butter chicken introduces a fresh, slightly sweet, and crispy texture. Dice the peppers and toss them into the curry while the chicken is cooking. This variation adds color and extra crunch, enhancing the overall eating experience.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing your leftovers properly can keep your butter chicken fresh for days and help you avoid food waste. Here are some of the best practices for storing your leftovers:

1. Cool it Quickly: Before refrigerating your butter chicken, let it cool to room temperature. It’s important not to leave the dish at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth. You can speed up the cooling process by transferring it into a shallow container, which will help the heat dissipate faster.
2. Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to store the butter chicken. This will help maintain its moisture, flavor, and prevent any odors from contaminating the rest of the food in your refrigerator. A well-sealed container also prevents air from getting in, which can cause the chicken to dry out.
3. Refrigeration: Store the butter chicken in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure your refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below. If you don’t plan on eating the leftovers within this time frame, freezing is your best option.
4. Freezing Leftovers: If you have more leftovers than you can finish within a few days, consider freezing your butter chicken. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Butter chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
5. Reheating: When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, gently reheat them in a saucepan over low heat to preserve the sauce’s texture. Stir often to ensure it heats evenly. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.
6. Avoid Reheating Multiple Times: While it’s tempting to reheat the butter chicken multiple times, it’s best to avoid doing so. Each time you reheat, the dish loses its freshness and can become tough. Only reheat the portion you plan to eat.

What Goes Well With Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken is a rich and flavorful dish, and finding the right sides to complement it can take your meal to the next level. Here are some excellent options that go perfectly with butter chicken:

1. Naan Bread: This classic side is the perfect vessel for soaking up the creamy, spiced sauce. Whether you go for traditional naan or a garlic naan variation, its soft, fluffy texture provides the ideal balance to the richness of the butter chicken.
2. Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is the go-to accompaniment for butter chicken. The fragrant rice complements the creamy sauce and provides a mild base that doesn’t compete with the spices. You can also try Jeera rice (cumin rice) for an added layer of flavor.
3. Raita: A cooling raita, made from yogurt, cucumber, mint, and spices, is an excellent side to balance out the heat and richness of the butter chicken. It also helps cleanse the palate between bites.
4. Saag (Spinach Curry): For an extra serving of greens, serve your butter chicken alongside saag, a spiced spinach curry. The earthy flavor of spinach complements the richness of the butter chicken, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.
5. Aloo Gobi: This Indian dish made of spiced potatoes and cauliflower pairs wonderfully with butter chicken. It provides a nice textural contrast and adds a savory, slightly spicy element to the meal.
6. Pickles: Indian pickles (achar) are a must-try side with butter chicken. The tanginess and spice of the pickles cut through the creaminess of the butter chicken and add a punch of flavor.
7. Lentils or Dal: A bowl of dal (lentils) adds a hearty and nutritious element to the meal. The mild, comforting flavors of dal balance the richness of the butter chicken perfectly.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with some variations, there’s a version to suit every palate.

By following best practices for storing leftovers and pairing the dish with complementary sides like naan, rice, or raita, you can ensure that your butter chicken experience is as enjoyable the next day as it is when freshly made. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and make the recipe your own, whether you’re tweaking the spice level or substituting ingredients to fit dietary needs. Ultimately, butter chicken is all about celebrating rich flavors and creating a dish that brings joy to every bite!.

FAQs

What Makes Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Recipe Unique?

Gordon Ramsay’s butter chicken recipe stands out due to its rich and balanced combination of spices, creamy texture, and the use of fresh ingredients. Unlike traditional butter chicken, Ramsay’s version often incorporates a mix of tomatoes, yogurt, and aromatic spices to create a deeply flavorful sauce, along with a careful cooking process that enhances the flavor profile of the chicken.

Can I Use Boneless Chicken For Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken in Gordon Ramsay’s butter chicken recipe. In fact, boneless chicken may be more convenient for quicker cooking and serving. You can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference.

What Spices Are Used In Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Recipe?

The recipe calls for a blend of aromatic spices including garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, coriander, and fenugreek. These spices contribute to the dish’s depth and complexity of flavor, with a slight heat from the chili powder and a comforting warmth from the garam masala.

Can I Adjust The Spice Level In Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken?

Absolutely!

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. Alternatively, if you want a spicier dish, you can increase the chili powder or add fresh chopped chilies to suit your taste.

What Kind Of Tomatoes Should I Use For Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken?

For the best flavor, it is recommended to use fresh, ripe tomatoes. However, if fresh tomatoes are not available, you can also use canned tomatoes or tomato puree. The key is to blend them well into the sauce to achieve a smooth, velvety texture.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken?

The preparation time for Gordon Ramsay’s butter chicken is typically around 20 minutes, while the cooking time can range from 30 to 40 minutes. Overall, you can expect to spend about an hour from start to finish.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Ahead Of Time?

Yes, butter chicken actually tastes even better when made ahead of time, as the flavors have more time to meld. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Recipe Suitable For A Vegetarian Diet?

Gordon Ramsay’s butter chicken recipe is not vegetarian, as it uses chicken as the main protein. However, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, paneer, or other plant-based protein options to make it vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken Spicier?

Yes, you can make it spicier by increasing the amount of chili powder, adding fresh chopped green chilies, or incorporating chili flakes into the recipe. Adjust the spice to your personal taste preferences.

What Should I Serve With Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken?

Gordon Ramsay’s butter chicken is best served with a side of basmati rice or naan bread. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the rice or can be scooped up with naan for a delicious meal.