There is nothing quite like diving into a comforting and richly flavored curry, and this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe brings that magic straight to your kitchen. Combining tender chicken thighs with a luscious tomato-cream sauce, infused with aromatic spices and just the right amount of buttery goodness, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, delightfully satisfying, and guarantees restaurant-quality results that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building the depth, creaminess, and vibrant color that butter chicken is famous for. With simple spices, fresh aromatics, and creamy elements, you will create a harmonious blend that sings with every bite.
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, making them perfect for soaking up all the rich sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the flavors throughout the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, mellow garlic note that complements fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika: Brings a gentle smoky-sweetness and beautiful red color.
- ½ teaspoon curry powder: Provides warmth and complexity with classic Indian spice layers.
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds tang to balance richness.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Ideal for browning the chicken without overpowering flavors.
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided: Imparts that classic silky, buttery texture crucial to butter chicken.
- 6 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic ensures a robust, fragrant base for the sauce.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Caramelizes into sweetness that deepens the sauce’s flavor.
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce: The rich tomato base that lends body and tang to the curry.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances acidity and rounds out the sauce’s taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste: Ensures perfect seasoning at the end.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and sharpness.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the indulgently smooth and velvety texture that makes butter chicken so irresistible.
How to Make Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken thigh chunks with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt in a bowl. This marinade not only infuses the meat with flavor but also tenderizes it for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Give it at least 30 minutes — patience here pays off beautifully!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the marinated chicken until each piece gets a lovely golden-brown char, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This browning step is key to unlocking deeper flavor. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion and cook it gently until it softens and turns translucent, which usually takes 8 to 10 minutes. This slow caramelization draws out the onion’s natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until its fragrance fills your kitchen with anticipation.
Step 4: Simmer the Gravy
Pour in the canned tomato sauce, then season with sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat, then cover and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally as the sauce thickens and the flavors meld into a vibrant, aromatic foundation for the chicken.
Step 5: Combine and Finish the Butter Chicken
Add your cooked chicken back into the skillet with the tomato gravy. Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Simmer uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken absorbs all those lovely flavors. This final step creates the rich and creamy signature look and taste that everyone adores about butter chicken.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe hot and fresh with your favorite sides. Whether it’s steaming basmati rice or soft, pillowy naan bread, these fresh accompaniments will soak up the luscious sauce and complete this unforgettable meal.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes lifts the dish visually and flavor-wise. Brightly chopped fresh cilantro leaves provide a fresh, herby contrast to the creamy sauce. A light sprinkle of garam masala or a few toasted fenugreek leaves can add an exotic aroma that truly elevates each bite.
Side Dishes
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice, which soaks up the savory sauce perfectly without overpowering it. For a more hands-on, comforting meal, serve with soft naan bread or roti to use as a spoon for the rich curry, making every mouthful a delight.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the butter chicken in a rustic cast iron skillet right at the table, garnished with a drizzle of cream and fresh cilantro sprigs. You might also try layering the curry over a bed of lemon-scented rice and topping it with toasted sliced almonds for an elegant touch that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Flavors often deepen overnight, so leftovers can taste even better the next day. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This butter chicken freezes wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge — this way, the chicken stays tender without drying out.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or cream can help restore the sauce’s consistency if it has thickened too much. This ensures every bite feels just as creamy and delicious as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, chicken breasts can work if you prefer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out faster than thighs.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is mildly spiced with warming curry powder and sweet paprika, so it leans towards a gentle heat. You can always adjust the spice levels by adding a pinch of chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer a kick.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative to make it dairy-free. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor but still result in a creamy, delicious dish.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is sufficient to tenderize the chicken and infuse flavors. If you have more time, marinating up to a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator will enhance taste even further.
What can I serve instead of rice or naan?
Besides rice and naan, butter chicken is fantastic with roasted vegetables, couscous, or even a warm salad of spiced chickpeas. These options add texture and variety while complementing the rich sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a deeply satisfying meal that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor, this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. It’s straightforward, comforting, and loaded with that creamy, buttery goodness that makes every spoonful special. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic dish that’s truly a delight every time you make it.
Print
Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe offers a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful tomato and cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it combines aromatic spices and a luscious gravy with simple ingredients for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
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
Cooking
- 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
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken in batches, browning each side for 3-4 minutes until slightly charred. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Gravy: Pour in the tomato sauce, then add sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to blend flavors.
- Combine & Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining butter. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and chicken to finish cooking through.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot, accompanied by your choice of rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer, up to 2 hours, enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Use boneless chicken thighs for more juicy and tender results than chicken breast.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding chili powder or cayenne if desired.
- For a richer sauce, butter can be increased slightly or cream substituted with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
