Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken
Alright, food lovers get ready to meet your new favorite comfort dish: Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken. This isn’t your average butter chicken it’s got that irresistible crunch on the outside, creamy, buttery goodness on the inside, and a hit of sweet-savory flavor that makes every bite downright addictive. It’s the kind of recipe you make once and then find yourself craving weekly. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or just on its own. You can serve it family-style or as a weeknight treat.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients that are light on the wallet but heavy on flavor.
Quick and Easy: Comes together faster than you’d think, especially for something this luxurious and restaurant-worthy.
Customizable: You can turn up the heat, swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, or make it lighter with baked or air-fried options.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken
Let’s talk about what makes this dish so unforgettable:
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Juicy, tender, and perfect for frying these soak up all that delicious flavor while staying crispy.
Cornstarch and Flour: The secret to that ultra-crispy coating. Light, airy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Garlic and Red Chilies: For that signature Singapore-style kick bold, aromatic, and punchy.
Butter: The soul of the sauce. Rich, creamy, and indulgent.
Evaporated Milk or Cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, silky texture that clings to every crispy bite.
Curry Leaves: A fragrant must-have for that authentic flavor twist.
Sugar and Soy Sauce: The sweet-savory balance that brings it all together.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer to perfection.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oil: Heat oil in a deep pan or wok until it reaches frying temperature (about 350°F/175°C). A thermometer helps, but a wooden chopstick bubbling works too!
Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, toss your chicken pieces with cornstarch and flour until they’re fully coated. Shake off any excess to keep them light and crisp.
Fry to Golden Perfection: Carefully drop chicken into the hot oil in batches and fry until golden brown and super crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towel.
Make the Sauce Base: In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté garlic, chilies, and curry leaves until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
Add the Creaminess: Pour in evaporated milk or cream, then add soy sauce and sugar. Stir to combine until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky.
Toss the Chicken: Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and toss to coat. You want every piece lovingly coated in buttery goodness.
Finishing Touches: Let it simmer for just a minute to bring all the flavors together. Add extra curry leaves or chili flakes if you like a stronger punch.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate it up hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or sesame seeds and dig in while it’s still crunchy and saucy.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 520
(put them as notes)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for the ultimate comfort combo.
- Pair with noodles or a stir-fried veggie medley for an Asian-inspired feast.
- Add a side of pickled vegetables or cucumber salad to balance the richness.
- Top with crispy shallots or a drizzle of chili oil for extra oomph.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use chicken thighs for juicier bites they hold up better in frying.
- Want it lighter? Try air frying or baking the chicken instead.
- Don’t skip the curry leaves they make a huge difference in aroma and depth.
- You can prep the chicken ahead and fry just before serving for extra crispiness.
- Add a splash of lime juice for brightness and balance.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works well too just don’t overcook it to keep it juicy.
2. What’s the best oil for frying?
Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil with a high smoke point.
3. Can I bake the chicken instead?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes until crispy.
4. Do I have to use curry leaves?
They’re traditional and add great flavor, but you can skip them if unavailable.
5. Is it spicy?
It has a gentle heat, but you can adjust the chili level to your liking.
6. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Just reheat gently and toss with fresh chicken when ready.
7. What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
Heavy cream or even coconut milk works great for a richer twist.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep it crisp.
9. Can I freeze this dish?
Freeze the fried chicken separately and make the sauce fresh for best results.
10. What toppings go well with this dish?
Try toasted sesame seeds, green onions, or a drizzle of chili crisp.
CONCLUSION
Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken is the kind of dish that satisfies every craving at once crispy, creamy, flavorful, and deeply comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or a weekday pick-me-up, it’s guaranteed to steal the show. So go ahead, whip up this buttery masterpiece, and prepare for happy, sauce-covered smiles all around.
Print
Creamy Crispy Singapore Butter Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying + Simmering
- Cuisine: Singaporean
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and indulgent twist on the classic, this Singapore-style butter chicken features crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a luscious, creamy butter sauce infused with curry leaves and chili.
Ingredients
- 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- Oil for deep frying
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional)
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 tbsp condensed milk
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix chicken with salt, pepper, egg, cornstarch, and flour to form a light batter.
- Heat oil in a pan and deep-fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In a clean pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, curry leaves, and chili, and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in evaporated milk, condensed milk, and sugar. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt to taste.
- Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or mantou buns.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more chili or chili flakes to the butter sauce.
- You can substitute evaporated milk with heavy cream if preferred.
- Best served immediately to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Singapore butter chicken, creamy butter chicken, crispy chicken, Asian fusion, curry leaf chicken