Print

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Say hello to your new favorite comfort food—this creamy and spiced Butter Chicken is a rich, velvety dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Pair it with naan bread and fluffy rice for the ultimate meal!

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a medium bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt.
    • Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
    • Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing the sauce and 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 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
    • 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 up any browned bits, adding a splash of water if needed.
    • Add minced garlic and diced onion, along with a pinch of salt.
    • Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  • Build the Sauce:
    • Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
    • Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix well.
    • Pour in the heavy cream and 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.
    • Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
  • 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 for garnish if desired.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.
    • This Butter Chicken is creamy, spiced, and perfect for a cozy meal at home. Enjoy the restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your kitchen!

Notes

  • Customization: You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed rice, naan, or any flatbread of choice.

Nutrition