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Homemade Butter Chicken

Mouthwatering Homemade Butter Chicken Ready in 30 Minutes

This Homemade Butter Chicken recipe captures the essence of takeout, delivering a comforting, creamy meal in just 30 minutes—fully customizable for everyone.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Skinless and boneless
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can substitute with fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Consider smoked paprika for an extra twist
  • 1 tablespoon Curry Powder Quintessential spice blend
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Or dairy-free yogurt if needed
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Any neutral oil works
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adjust according to dietary preferences
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1 large Onion Finely chopped
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Creamy foundation of the sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Balances acidity
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to your spice level
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with coconut cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to your spice tolerance
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala Traditional spice blend
For Serving
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Optional garnish
  • 4 pieces Naan Bread To soak up the sauce
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice To complement the dish

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Butter Chicken
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine skinless, boneless chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Ensure all the chicken pieces are well-coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes for optimal flavor infusion, or refrigerate for up to an hour for even deeper flavor.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the marinated chicken in a single layer, allowing it to sear without overcrowding. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 3 minced garlic cloves and one finely chopped onion. Sauté this mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Next, stir in one cup of tomato sauce and 1 tablespoon of sugar, allowing it to bubble. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce. Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream, along with ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper and 1 teaspoon of garam masala. Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
  6. Stir in a tablespoon of cold butter to finish. Taste your butter chicken and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot alongside warm naan and fluffy steamed rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight and use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Adjust spice levels to your taste.

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