Description

A quick and easy homemade Butter Chicken recipe with tender marinated chicken simmered in a rich, creamy, mildly spiced tomato-based sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, best served with naan bread and steamed rice.

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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Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium, add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet, and sauté garlic and onion until translucent and fragrant.
Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then return chicken to the skillet.
Pour in heavy cream and stir until the sauce turns orange.
Add cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Simmer on low for 10 minutes.
Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and smooth. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

Notes

For extra spice, increase cayenne or add chili powder.
Paneer can be used instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan butter.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 2–3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 155mg