Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 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; 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); 1 teaspoon garam masala; ½ teaspoon curry powder; ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish); Naan bread, for serving; Steamed rice, for serving

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and packed with savory flavors. Despite its indulgent taste, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The succulent chicken and velvety sauce are best served with naan bread and steamed rice, creating the perfect comfort meal that everyone will love.

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

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

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

Directions

Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Cook the Chicken
Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable 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 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. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan, 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 and stir until the sauce turns a rich 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 about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt as needed.
Finish with Butter
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt into the sauce, making the dish silky and smooth. If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Butter Chicken hot with naan bread and steamed rice. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 people
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Marinate Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Butter Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicier version of this dish.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a vegetarian alternative.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan butter to make the dish dairy-free.
Add Vegetables: You can incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or peas into the sauce to add more flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. You can also add a splash of cream or water to adjust the consistency if it thickens too much while storing.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but the dish may be a bit less juicy. Chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper, chili powder, or chopped green chilies to increase the heat in your Butter Chicken.

3. Can I use yogurt with a different flavor for the marinade?

While Greek yogurt is the recommended option, you can also use plain yogurt or a non-dairy alternative. Just make sure it’s unflavored.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make Butter Chicken dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative.

5. Can I freeze Butter Chicken?

Yes, Butter Chicken freezes well. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

6. What can I serve with Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with naan bread, steamed rice, or even a side of roasted vegetables.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Butter Chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight.

8. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with paneer, a type of Indian cheese, to create a vegetarian Butter Chicken.

9. Can I adjust the level of creaminess?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream. For a richer dish, add more cream or use full-fat coconut milk for a different flavor.

10. Can I make Butter Chicken without tomato sauce?

While tomato sauce is a key ingredient, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or pureed tomatoes if needed.

Conclusion

Quick, easy, and full of flavor, this homemade Butter Chicken recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to adjust the spice level or make variations to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!