Learn the best butter chicken recipe cashew style, with a rich tomato-cashew gravy. Step-by-step method, expert tips, variations, and FAQs included.
Introduction: Butter chicken recipe cashew
Butter chicken recipe cashew is a rich and comforting Indian curry that combines tender chicken with a smooth tomato-based sauce thickened naturally using cashew paste.
Unlike heavy cream-only versions, this recipe achieves a balanced, silky texture while allowing spices to shine.
Cashews add subtle sweetness, body, and depth, making the curry indulgent without being overpowering. This version stays close to restaurant-style North Indian butter chicken, yet it’s easy enough for home cooks.
Whether you’re serving guests or making a weekend family meal, this dish delivers consistent flavor, aroma, and visual appeal.
What Is Butter Chicken with Cashew Sauce?
Butter chicken with cashew sauce is a variation of traditional murgh makhani where blended cashews replace part of the cream used in the gravy.
Key characteristics of Butter chicken recipe cashew:
- Naturally thick and creamy texture
- Balanced sweetness that softens tomato acidity
- Milder spice profile suitable for most palates
- Glossy, restaurant-style finish
Cashews have long been used in Indian gravies to add richness without overwhelming the spices. When cooked properly, they create a sauce that is smooth, luxurious, and deeply flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Butter chicken recipe cashew
Chicken Marinade
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken | 1 kg |
| Plain yogurt | ½ cup |
| Ginger-garlic paste | 1 tbsp |
| Kashmiri chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric | ½ tsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
Cashew Butter Chicken Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw cashews (soaked & blended) | ½–¾ cup |
| Butter or ghee | 2–3 tbsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 3–4 cloves |
| Ginger (minced) | 1 tbsp |
| Tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Kasuri methi | ¼ tsp |
| Water or stock | ½–1 cup |
| Fresh cream (optional) | 2–3 tbsp |
| Fresh coriander | For garnish |
Cashews are the defining ingredient, giving this butter chicken its signature richness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Combine chicken with yogurt, spices, lemon juice, and salt. Mix thoroughly, cover, and rest for at least 30 minutes (overnight recommended).
2. Prepare Cashew Paste
Soak cashews for 15–20 minutes, then blend into a smooth, thick paste using minimal water.
3. Cook Aromatics
Heat butter or ghee in a pan. Sauté onions until soft and golden. Add ginger and garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce Base
Add tomato puree and spices. Cook until the mixture thickens and butter separates slightly.
5. Add Cashew Paste
Lower heat and stir in cashew paste slowly. Add water or stock to reach desired consistency.
6. Simmer the Chicken
Add marinated chicken, stir well, cover, and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes until tender.
7. Finish the Dish
Add kasuri methi and cream (optional). Simmer briefly, garnish with coriander, and turn off heat.
Tips for Best Results
- Use chicken thighs for juicier texture
- Always soak cashews for smooth gravy
- Cook cashew sauce on low heat
- Adjust spice gradually to avoid overpowering flavors
- Rest the curry 10 minutes before serving
These steps ensure a perfect butter chicken recipe cashew every time.
Variations and Substitutes
- Vegan: Use tofu or vegetables; replace butter with oil
- Lighter version: Skip cream; cashews still provide richness
- Spicy version: Add green chilies or extra chili powder
- Nut substitute: Almond paste or sunflower seed paste
Each variation preserves the core flavor while meeting different preferences.
What to Serve With Butter Chicken
Best pairings include:
- Basmati rice
- Butter naan or garlic naan
- Jeera rice
- Cucumber raita or onion salad
These sides balance the richness of the cashew gravy perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is butter chicken sweet?
No. It is mildly savory with gentle sweetness from tomatoes and cashews.
Why use cashews instead of only cream?
Cashews thicken naturally and enhance flavor without excessive dairy.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The flavor improves after resting overnight.
Can I freeze cashew butter chicken?
Yes. Freeze without cream and add cream when reheating.
Is this recipe authentic?
Yes. Cashew-based gravies are common in North Indian restaurant cooking.
Conclusion
This butter chicken recipe cashew delivers restaurant-style richness, balanced spice, and a silky texture using simple techniques and real ingredients. Cashews transform the curry into something luxurious yet approachable.
Once you master this method, it becomes a reliable go-to dish for family meals, celebrations, and special occasions—comfort food done right.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
