There is something truly magical about this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe that makes it an instant favorite in any kitchen. Creamy, richly spiced, and bursting with warmth, this dish wraps tender chicken thighs in a luscious tomato and butter sauce that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests, this dish proves that homemade Indian cuisine can be both approachable and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to creating this unforgettable dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from the spices that build complex flavors to the creamy elements that offer that signature buttery richness.
- Chicken thighs (1.5 pounds): Juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the marinade and sauce.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the marinade and balances the spices.
- Garam masala (1 tablespoon): The quintessential Indian spice mix that brings warmth and depth.
- Ground turmeric (1 teaspoon): Provides vibrant color and subtle earthiness.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a smoky nuance that complements the other spices.
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): Offers a light, citrusy flavor to the spice blend.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Gives just the right kick without overpowering.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For browning the chicken and cooking the aromatics.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Key for that rich, silky sauce everyone craves.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Provides sweetness and body to the sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses savory depth and warmth.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Adds bright zing and complexity.
- Tomato sauce (15-ounce can): The luscious base that thickens into a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates that irresistible silky texture we all love.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): Balances acidity if needed, bringing harmony.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by whisking together the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add the bite-sized chicken thighs and toss everything until each piece is generously coated with the fragrant marinade. Cover and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least one hour, though overnight brings even deeper flavor. This marination tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with those luscious Indian spices that form the heart of this butter chicken recipe.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure they don’t crowd the pan. Cook until nicely browned on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step locks in juices and adds a subtle caramelized flavor. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside while you craft the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics & Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter to create that silky richness buttery chicken is known for. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and golden, roughly 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This careful layering of flavors builds the comforting base that makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well, letting it cook and reduce gently for about 10 minutes. This step helps concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce just right. Return the browned chicken to the pan, stirring it into the sauce to soak up every bit of those luscious spices and tomato goodness.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Simmer
Now, the magic moment: stir in the heavy cream and sugar if using. The cream transforms the sauce into a silky, indulgent delight. Simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens to a perfect velvety consistency. This final simmer melds all the flavors together, creating the signature buttery, spiced experience that’s the essence of a great butter chicken.
How to Serve Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce. You can also add a dollop of cream or a squeeze of lemon juice on top just before serving for an extra layer of brightness.
Side Dishes
This butter chicken pairs beautifully with warm, fluffy basmati rice or soft garlic naan bread to soak up every delicious drop of the sauce. Steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber raita can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy richness, making your meal even more vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the butter chicken in elegant shallow bowls with a swirl of cream and a cilantro sprig on top. Alternatively, make individual mini naan wraps filled with butter chicken and fresh herbs for a fun, hand-held option that’s perfect for gatherings and parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover butter chicken tastes just as fantastic the next day once the flavors have melded even further. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and delicious.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the butter chicken into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure moisture and texture remain intact.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir often and add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much. This careful reheating keeps the dish luscious and tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely, though chicken thighs remain juicier and more forgiving during cooking. If using breast, be careful not to overcook to keep it tender and moist.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this butter chicken?
Yes! You can substitute firm paneer or tofu for the chicken and follow the same marinade and sauce steps for a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?
The level of heat is moderate and adjustable by varying the chili powder. Feel free to add more if you prefer some extra kick or less for a milder, family-friendly dish.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Definitely! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. This tweak keeps the creamy texture while accommodating dietary needs.
What can I serve with butter chicken besides rice and naan?
It pairs really well with roasted vegetables, couscous, or even a fresh salad to balance the richness. Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand!
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. The luscious sauce, tender chicken, and rich spices create a harmony that’s incredibly rewarding to make and even more delightful to eat. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and bring a bit of Indian magic straight to your kitchen!
Print
Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and creamy homemade butter chicken recipe featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked in a buttery tomato sauce with cream, perfect served with rice or naan.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Butter Chicken Sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce or purée
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
- Brown the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches if necessary and cook until browned on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the tomato sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce or purée, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld.
- Simmer with chicken: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and optional sugar to balance acidity. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the finished dish. Serve hot with steamed rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream and use dairy-free yogurt for the marinade.
- Adjust the chili powder amount to increase or decrease the spice level according to taste.
