Name: Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken That Will Steal Your Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken thighs or breasts (Choose thighs for added juiciness.); 1 cup Greek yogurt (Can substitute with plant-based yogurt.); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves minced garlic; 1 medium diced onion; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 cup heavy cream (Can be substituted with coconut cream.); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (Optional and adjustable.); 1 teaspoon garam masala; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro (For garnish.)

The aroma of warm spices fills the air as I stir the pot, instantly transporting me to my favorite restaurant – but the best part? I’m at home. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken has become my go-to recipe for cozy nights when I crave that rich, creamy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken enveloped in a silky tomato-cream sauce, this dish not only impresses but also simplifies Indian cooking with everyday ingredients. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, and if you’re like me and tired of fast food, this comforting meal is just the ticket to elevate your dinner routine. Curious about how to bring this indulgent experience into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Butter Chicken So Great?

Homemade Comfort: This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken offers a taste of authentic Indian cuisine without the hassle of complex recipes.

Rich, Creamy Indulgence: With its silky, tomato-cream sauce and tender chicken, this dish is the perfect remedy for a hectic weeknight.

Simple Ingredients: Utilizing common staples like chicken and Greek yogurt, you don’t need to hunt for exotic items or spend a fortune.

Versatile Flavor: Enjoy it with naan or basmati rice, and feel free to lighten it up with coconut cream if you prefer.

Time-Saving Delight: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe transforms your dining table into a gourmet experience that the whole family will adore. For more delicious ideas, try pairing this with Grilled Chicken Broccoli or add some crunch with a side of Crispy Fried Chicken Street Tacos.

Homemade Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Chicken (boneless, skinless thighs or breasts) – Choose thighs for added juiciness and tenderness.
• Greek Yogurt – Acts as a tenderizing marinade; substitute with plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor with aromatic depth.
• Paprika – Adds sweetness and a brilliant color to your chicken.
• Curry Powder – An essential spice blend that gives our Homemade Butter Chicken its authentic Indian flavor.
• Salt – Elevates the overall taste of the dish.

For the Sauce
• Butter – Provides richness and flavor for that creamy finish.
• Olive Oil – Helps in cooking the chicken evenly while building layers of flavor.
• Minced Garlic – Freshly minced garlic elevates the aroma and depth of the sauce.
• Diced Onion – Creates a foundational flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Tomato Sauce – Gives the sauce its base and a touch of acidity.
• Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a harmonious taste.
• Heavy Cream – Provides a rich and velvety texture; can be substituted with coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free alternative.
• Black Pepper – Adds an extra layer of heat and complexity to the sauce.
• Cayenne (optional) – Adjust the spiciness according to your taste preferences.

Finishing Touches
• Garam Masala – Intensifies the dish’s warmth and aromatic complexity.
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro – Garnish for a pop of color and brightness in your Homemade Butter Chicken.

Let’s turn these simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken in a medium bowl. Combine boneless chicken thighs or breasts with Greek yogurt, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and curry powder. Ensure all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize. This step enhances the overall taste of your homemade butter chicken.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat half of the butter and a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, turning halfway, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, keeping the juices intact for the next step.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This aromatic base will elevate the flavors in your homemade butter chicken, creating a beautiful foundation for the sauce.

Step 4: Create the Sauce
Once the onion is ready, stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, curry powder, and optional cayenne. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes until the flavors combine beautifully. You’ll notice the sauce thickening slightly, which adds depth to your butter chicken.

Step 5: Add Cream for Richness
Reduce the heat to low and carefully stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5-7 minutes while stirring constantly. This will create a rich, lush texture synonymous with traditional homemade butter chicken. Keep an eye on it to prevent the cream from curdling, ensuring a silky finish.

Step 6: Finish Cooking the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet along with any juices that have gathered. Sprinkle with garam masala and stir gently to coat. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, letting the chicken absorb the sauce and ensuring it’s fully cooked. The chicken should be tender and flavorful, enveloped in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, prepare to serve your delicious homemade butter chicken. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro to brighten the dish. This added touch not only enhances the presentation but also adds a pleasant freshness. Pair it with naan or basmati rice to soak up the delightful sauce, and enjoy your culinary creation!

Storage Tips for Homemade Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover homemade butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of butter chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much!

Airtight Container: Use airtight containers for both fridge and freezer storage to help retain the creamy texture of your homemade butter chicken.

Expert Tips for Homemade Butter Chicken

Marinate Well: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes—ideally overnight—so it absorbs all the spices, enhancing flavor for the homemade butter chicken.
Pan Space: To avoid steaming, don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. This helps achieve that beautiful, golden-brown crust and keeps it juicy.
Adjust Spiciness: Control the heat by tasting the sauce as you go. Remember, you can always add cayenne later, but it’s hard to tone it down once it’s in.
Stir Constantly: When adding cream, stir constantly on low heat to prevent curdling, ensuring your sauce stays silky and creamy.
Garam Masala Timing: Add garam masala towards the end to retain its aromatic properties, giving your dish that final burst of flavor.
Leftover Magic: Don’t toss leftovers! They can be refrigerated for three days and often taste even better as the flavors meld overnight.

Homemade Butter Chicken Variations

Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and make this delightful dish your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt and heavy cream with plant-based yogurt and coconut cream for a creamy, vegan-friendly version.
This swap not only caters to dietary preferences but also infuses a subtle coconut flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Spice-It-Up: Add a teaspoon of hot curry paste or fresh ginger for an extra kick.
This twist brings a dynamic depth and makes the experience even more vibrant, perfect for spice lovers!
Crispy Texture: Top your butter chicken with crispy fried onion pieces for a delightful crunch.
This addition not only enhances texture but also elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite exciting.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some spinach or peas during the simmering step for added nutrition and color.
This not only broadens the flavors but makes for a heartier meal that everyone can enjoy!
Flavorful Marinade: Marinate the chicken with lemon juice and fresh herbs for a zesty twist.
The brightness from the herbs and citrus can cut through the richness of the sauce, creating a refreshing balance.
Alternative Proteins: Swap chicken for protein-rich chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version.
This twist still ensures a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and protein without losing that creamy essence.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or basil sprinkled on top before serving.
This brightens the dish and brings a unique twist that differentiates your homemade butter chicken every time.
Garnish Variety: Instead of parsley or cilantro, use toasted nuts like almonds or cashews for garnish.
This adds a wonderful crunch and a different flavor, creating a decadent feel to your comforting dish.

With these variations, the only limit is your imagination! And for more delicious ideas, consider pairing with Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies for a sweet end to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a more delicious result. Additionally, prepare the sauce (steps 3 through 5) ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet and add the seared chicken, letting it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through. This approach ensures your butter chicken is just as delightful and comforting, with minimal effort on the day of serving.

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that enhance the rich flavors of this creamy, comforting dish.

Steamed Basmati Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice absorbs the velvety sauce beautifully, creating a comforting bite with every mouthful.
Warm Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping up sauce, this soft and pillowy bread adds a delightful texture and aids in enjoying every last drop.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch of cucumbers and tangy dressing balances the rich butter chicken, brightening your palate for a well-rounded meal.

Pairing butter chicken with sides rich in textures and flavors not only enhances your eating experience but also offers a little something for everyone at the table. Enjoying these elements together always guarantees a warm and satisfying feast.

Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned roasted carrots and bell peppers add a sweet, smoky note that complements the spicy flavors of the butter chicken.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A comforting classic, velvety mashed potatoes soak up the luscious sauce, creating a heavenly combination that’s hard to resist.
Mango Lassi: This sweet, yogurt-based drink brings a cooling effect to the table, balancing the spices while adding a creamy, fruity twist.
Samosas: Crunchy, flaky pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas are a delightful appetizer that pairs wonderfully with the meal.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm and gooey chocolate treat, bringing a sweet conclusion to your flavorful dinner.

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for butter chicken?
For the best results, I highly recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are juicier and more forgiving during cooking compared to chicken breasts. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless breasts can also be used.

How should I store leftover butter chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing; the flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious on day two!

Can I freeze homemade butter chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze your butter chicken for up to 2 months. To do so, let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.

Why is my butter chicken sauce too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you like, you can fix it! Simply add a bit of chicken broth or water to the sauce while reheating, stirring well until you achieve your desired consistency. If you’re rewrapping leftovers, consider adding a splash of cream for a creamy texture.

Can my pets enjoy this butter chicken?
While the chicken itself is safe for pets, I advise against letting them have the sauce. Ingredients like salt, garlic, and heavy cream can be harmful to your furry friends. Always check with your vet for dietary guidelines!

How do I adjust the spice level in butter chicken?
Taming the spice level is super simple! Start by using only a small amount of cayenne pepper, or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dish. You can always serve it on the side, allowing everyone to customize their heat level at the table.