What’s The Difference Between Butter Chicken And Chicken Tikka Masala?
If you’re exploring Indian cuisine in Italy, chances are you’ve encountered two delicious dishes that often confuse food lovers: Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala. Both are rich, flavorful, and comforting — but they are not the same. At SAAZ RESTOBAR, the Best Indian Restaurant Italy, we often meet curious diners wondering about the difference.
This article breaks down both dishes and helps you decide which one suits your taste buds best. Whether you’re dining with us in the heart of Rome or looking for a spicy culinary adventure, you’ll find answers here. Origins: North India vs. Culinary Fusion
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is believed to have originated in Delhi. It was invented by chance when leftover tandoori chicken was mixed with a buttery tomato-based gravy. It’s mild, creamy, and slightly sweet — a true comfort food.
On the other hand, Chicken Tikka Masala is said to have been developed in the UK, inspired by Indian cuisine but adapted for Western palates. It’s spicier than Butter Chicken and often has a more complex, smoky flavor due to the grilled chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and spices before being added to the sauce.
At our Top Indian Restaurant in Rome Italy known for authenticity and innovation, we offer both dishes made fresh by our expert chefs using highquality ingredients and traditional Indian cooking techniques. Flavor Profile: Creamy vs. Spicy Butter Chicken at our restaurant is smooth, velvety, and rich in butter and cream. The gravy is based on tomatoes, butter, and cashews, and the dish leans towards the mild side of the spice scale. It’s perfect for those trying Indian food for the first time or anyone who enjoys comfort meals.
Chicken Tikka Masala, on the other hand, has a stronger, more intense flavor. Chicken is marinated in spices and yogurt, cooked in the tandoor, and then mixed in with a spiced tomato-based curry. It’s mid-spice, providing a soothing, pleasing kick — perfect for consumers who need a little spice.
Whatever you pick, both are a must-have when eating at an Indian Restaurant In Rome Italy such as ours.
How They’re Cooked Both recipes employ chicken as the primary protein, but the method of preparation varies:
In Butter Chicken, the chicken is often pre-cooked (like tandoori-style) and then simmered in the buttery sauce.
For Chicken Tikka Masala, chicken is cooked separately by adding a smoky flavor with grilling or roasting before combining it with the curry.
Both Top Indian Restaurant dishes are made in the traditional way with a modern presentation — the ideal blend of tradition and modern dining. What to Eat Them With We serve Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala with a variety of fresh breads and rice, including:
Butter Naan — soft, fluffy, and brushed with butter
Garlic Naan — packed with aromatic garlic
Jeera Rice — fragrant basmati rice flavored with cumin
Peas Pulao Rice — mildly spiced rice with green peas
These options complement both dishes beautifully and help balance the spice and richness. This versatility is what makes our restaurant the Best Indian Restaurant Italy. What to Drink With Them Pairing drinks is an art, and at our restobar, our diverse beverage selection is crafted to enhance your dining experience.
For Butter Chicken:
A cooling Mango Lassi or Sweet Lassi helps balance the rich, creamy flavor.
A glass of Chardonnay Iava (Italia) complements the creaminess of the dish.
For Chicken Tikka Masala:
A Masala Chai adds depth to the spice, creating a warm, lingering finish.
Prefer something stronger? Try pairing with an Old Monk Rum or Johnny Walker Black, which holds up well to the spices.
If you’re a beer lover, our Kingfisher or Stella Artois can work wonders with both dishes. Whether you’re dining during lunch or dinner, we guarantee the right drink to enhance your culinary experience at our Indian Restaurant In Rome Italy.
Why Choose Us? We are more than just a place to eat. We are a community, a creative hub, and a destination for food lovers seeking authentic Indian cuisine with a twist. Here’s why we’re known as the Best Indian Restaurant Italy:
Authentic Recipes: Our chefs use time-honored Indian techniques combined with the freshest ingredients.
Diverse Menus: From classic dishes like Butter Chicken to street food delights like Pani Puri and Vada Pav, we offer something for every craving.
Ambience & Service: With fine dining, an open bar, and mixology experiences, we ensure each visit is memorable.
Events & Catering: From private parties and theme nights to destination weddings, we handle it all with style and flavor. Cultural Fusion: We’re not just a restaurant — we’re also a platform for arts, crafts, and vibrant cultural expression. If you’re in search of a Top Indian Restaurant offering world-class food, warm hospitality, and a one-of-a-kind vibe, look no further than SAAZ RESTOBAR.
Join us at SAAZ RESTOBAR, the Best Indian Restaurant Italy, to taste these iconic dishes — and discover why we are the most-loved Indian Restaurant In Rome Italy.
