Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood by the stove, the aroma of spices wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a bustling Indian market filled with vibrant colors and rich flavors. This is the magic of my Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe—a soul-warming dish that will have your taste buds dancing. In just one pot, you can create a creamy, spiced masterpiece that’s not only a comfort food favorite but also a hassle-free meal perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, with simple substitutions, this recipe caters to gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor. So, whether you’re feeding your family or impressing friends, get ready to savor every comforting bite—what will you serve it with: warm naan, fluffy rice, or both? Why Is This Butter Chicken Recipe Special? Quick Preparation: You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this delectable dish in under 30 minutes. Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The combination of spices creates a rich, comforting flavor that everyone adores. Versatile Ingredients: Substitute with paneer or mixed veggies for a vegetarian twist, or use chicken breasts for a leaner option. One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Comfort Food Done Right: Pair it with naan or rice for a complete meal that warms the soul—perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests! Want to explore more delicious recipes? Check out Keto Chicken Alfredo for a taste that won’t disappoint! Homemade Butter Chicken Ingredients • Discover the essentials for a delightful homemade butter chicken! For the Chicken Chicken Thighs – Skinless and boneless for tender, juicy pieces. Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust according to your taste. Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic depth; try fresh garlic for extra zing. For the Marinade Sweet Paprika – Brings a lovely color and mild sweetness. Curry Powder – Provides a rich Indian flavor; use your favorite blend. Greek Yogurt – Tenderizes the chicken and adds creaminess; substitute with dairy-free yogurt for a lighter version. For the Sauce Vegetable Oil – Perfect for sautéing; any neutral oil will work. Butter – Adds richness; margarine can be used for a dairy-free alternative. Garlic (6 cloves, minced) – Fresh flavor boost for the sauce. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds natural sweetness; shallots are a great alternative. Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15-ounce) – Forms the base; substitute with crushed tomatoes for added texture. Sugar (1 teaspoon) – Balances the acidity of tomatoes for a harmonious flavor. Black Pepper – Adds a gentle heat; adjust to your preference. Heavy Cream (2 cups) – Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute. Cayenne Pepper – Adds optional heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish. Garam Masala – Essential for authentic flavor; you can mix cumin, coriander, and cardamom if needed. For Garnish Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds a touch of freshness; cilantro works as a lovely substitute. This homemade butter chicken recipe is both fulfilling and customizable, making it a delightful centerpiece for your family dinners or cozy gatherings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe Step 1: Marinate Chicken Begin by placing skinless, boneless chicken thighs in a mixing bowl. Add salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt, then mix everything thoroughly until the chicken pieces are evenly coated. Let this mixture marinate for about 15 minutes at room temperature, allowing the flavors to infuse and the yogurt to tenderize the meat. Step 2: Cook Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sauté the chicken for 8-10 minutes until golden brown on the outside and cooked through, flipping occasionally. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Step 3: Prepare Sauce Base In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Add 6 cloves of minced garlic and one medium diced onion, sautéing for about 3–5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This caramelization process enhances the sauce’s depth. Step 4: Build Sauce Stir in one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce along with 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Once simmered, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is submerged in the vibrant sauce. Step 5: Finish Sauce Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream gradually while stirring, transforming the sauce into a rich, creamy orange. Season with freshly cracked black pepper and 1 teaspoon of garam masala. Optionally, add cayenne pepper to taste, then reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify and the sauce to thicken. Step 6: Complete Finally, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted, creating a silky finish to your homemade butter chicken. Taste the sauce and adjust any seasoning as needed before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish over warm naan or fluffy rice for a delightful meal that your family will love! Expert Tips for Homemade Butter Chicken Marinate Longer: For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours; it makes a noticeable difference in taste. Use High-Quality Oil: Choose a high-smoke-point oil like canola or grapeseed to prevent burning during cooking. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt, spices, and sweetness during cooking for a personalized flavor that shines. Check Chicken Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety while keeping it juicy and tender. Creamy Sauce Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, ensuring a rich taste that still feels indulgent. Homemade Butter Chicken Variations Feel free to make this Butter Chicken your own with these delightful variations to suit your tastes! Chicken Breasts: Swap out thighs for breast meat to create a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with paneer or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a hearty vegetarian dish. Dairy-Free Creaminess: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream to keep it rich while making it dairy-free. Herb Swap: Try fresh cilantro instead of parsley for a vibrant flavor boost that brightens the dish. Spice It Up: Customize the heat by increasing the cayenne or adding sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Sweet Finish: Add a touch of honey or brown sugar to the sauce for a hint of sweetness that balances the spices beautifully. Nutrient Boost: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and a pop of color. Flavor Fusion: Experiment with different spice blends or even a dash of smoked paprika for a subtly different flavor profile. If you’re looking for delicious twists, don’t forget to check out other comforting recipes like Garlic Butter Salmon or switch things up with Char Siu Chicken. Enjoy crafting a Butter Chicken that’s uniquely yours! What to Serve with Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken There’s nothing quite like the joy of creating a delightful meal that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. Warm Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up that creamy butter chicken sauce. It’s a classic, comforting side that enhances the dish’s flavors. Fluffy Basmati Rice: The fragrant, nutty flavor of basmati rice provides a lovely contrast to the rich, spiced sauce, soaking up every delicious drop. Cucumber Raita: This cool, refreshing yogurt dip balances the spices of the butter chicken. It’s the ideal palate cleanser between bites. Roasted Vegetables: Try a mix of seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, lightly seasoned. Their natural sweetness complements the savory sauce beautifully. Mango Chutney: The sweet and tangy taste of mango chutney works wonders with the savory notes of butter chicken, adding a delightful zing to every mouthful. Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of white wine, especially these varietals, aligns beautifully with the spices and creaminess of the dish, creating a harmonious dining experience. Gulab Jamun: For dessert, these syrup-soaked milk balls add a sweet finish to your meal, making it truly unforgettable. The contrast between flavors will linger in your mind. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy and fragrant, these potatoes offer a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the chicken. Make Ahead Options These Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping! You can marinate the chicken with the spices and yogurt up to 24 hours in advance for a more robust flavor. Simply cover the bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. The sauce can be prepared and stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator; just keep it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, heat the sauce in a skillet, add the pre-cooked chicken, and pour in the heavy cream to finish. This ensures you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade butter chicken recipe with minimal effort, just as delightful as when freshly made! How to Store and Freeze Butter Chicken Fridge: Store your homemade Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over low heat until heated through. Airtight Guidance: Always ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain the dish’s delicious flavors. Extra Tip: If planning to freeze, consider leaving the heavy cream out of the initial cooking; stir it in after reheating for a creamy finish. Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for my Butter Chicken? Absolutely! For the best results, choose ripe tomatoes for your sauce if using fresh ingredients. If using canned tomato sauce, select a brand with no added sugars or preservatives. Fresh chicken should be firm and free of any dark spots or off smells. Opt for Greek yogurt that’s creamy and unflavored to enhance the dish’s texture and taste. How should I store leftover Butter Chicken? Very! Store your homemade Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy and restore the texture. Can I freeze my Butter Chicken? Absolutely! You can freeze Butter Chicken for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. For best results, you may want to leave out the heavy cream before freezing; stir it in after reheating for a rich, creamy finish. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop. What should I do if my Butter Chicken is too spicy? If you find it too spicy, don’t worry! You can balance the heat by adding a bit of sugar or more heavy cream to the sauce. Both will mellow the spice levels and create a more harmonious flavor. You can also add some coconut milk, which will lend creaminess and sweetness without additional spice. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! This Homemade Butter Chicken recipe is inherently gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat-based ingredients. Just make sure to use gluten-free yogurt and verify that the curry powder and other seasonings you select are also gluten-free, ensuring a safe and delicious meal for everyone! Is there anything I need to be cautious about when cooking with raw chicken? Yes! Always be sure to handle raw chicken with care to avoid cross-contamination. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling it. Cook the chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe for consumption. Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe You'll Love This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a quick and easy dish that brings rich flavors to your table, perfect for any weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: IndianCalories: 540 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more flavorFor the Marinade1 tablespoon Sweet Paprika1 tablespoon Curry Powder1 cup Greek Yogurt Dairy-free yogurt can be usedFor the Sauce2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can use any neutral oil2 tablespoons Butter Margarine can be used for dairy-free option6 cloves Garlic Minced1 medium Onion Diced1 can Tomato Sauce 15-ounce, can substitute with crushed tomatoes1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to preference2 cups Heavy Cream Coconut cream can be used1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional for heat1 teaspoon Garam Masala Can mix cumin, coriander, and cardamom if neededFor GarnishFresh Parsley Optional, cilantro can be substituted Equipment Large SkilletMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsMarinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and let marinate for 15 minutes.Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and sauté for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.Prepare Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent.Build Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes before returning the chicken to the skillet.Finish Sauce: Gradually pour in heavy cream while stirring. Season with black pepper and garam masala. Optionally add cayenne pepper and simmer for 10 minutes.Complete: Stir in remaining butter until melted. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve over naan or rice. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 35gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 23gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesThis dish is fulfilling and customizable, suitable for family dinners or gatherings. For deeper flavor, marinate chicken up to 2 hours. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a lighter dish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
