This homemade butter chicken recipe brings the rich, creamy, and flavorful classic dish right to your kitchen. Perfectly marinated chicken is cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce, seasoned with aromatic spices, and finished with butter for that signature creamy texture. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor. The marinated chicken brings out bold and aromatic spices, while the rich and creamy sauce offers a comforting finish. With minimal prep time and ingredients that are easy to find, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade:

1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon curry powder
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

To Serve:

Naan bread
Steamed rice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, leaving the oil in the pan.
Prepare the Sauce Base:
Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Deglaze the pan by scraping any browned bits, adding a splash of water if needed. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, along with a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Build the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding the chicken back into the skillet. Mix well, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce turns a beautiful orange hue.
Season and Simmer:
Add cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add in the rest of the spices and salt to taste!
Finish with Butter:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter and let it melt into the sauce for a silky finish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Spicy Butter Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chilies to intensify the heat in the dish.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Less Creamy Version: For a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or use coconut milk instead for a slightly different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to adjust the consistency if necessary. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, though chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful.

2. Can I make this recipe without yogurt?

Yes, if you’re unable to use Greek yogurt, you can substitute with sour cream or omit it entirely. It might slightly change the texture, but it will still be delicious.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper or include fresh chilies along with the garlic and onions when preparing the sauce.

4. Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat before serving.

5. Is butter chicken healthy?

This dish can be a bit rich due to the heavy cream and butter, but it’s a delicious treat when enjoyed in moderation. For a lighter version, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk.

6. Can I use canned tomato sauce in this recipe?

Yes, canned tomato sauce works perfectly in this recipe. If you use tomato puree or crushed tomatoes, the sauce may be a bit chunkier, but it will still taste great.

7. How can I thicken the butter chicken sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce it. Alternatively, you can stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the sauce.

8. What can I serve with butter chicken besides naan and rice?

You can serve butter chicken with roasted vegetables, a fresh cucumber salad, or a simple flatbread for a lighter meal.

9. Is butter chicken gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, but make sure the naan bread and rice you serve with it are also gluten-free if required.

10. Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes, butter chicken can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

This quick and easy homemade butter chicken is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and spicy flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Simple to make, packed with flavor, and satisfying, it’s a must-try recipe that everyone will love

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe