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Homemade Butter Chicken

Homemade Butter Chicken

Homemade Butter Chicken is a creamy, spiced masterpiece that brings comfort to any table. This butter chicken recipe delivers rich flavors with simple steps, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs 680g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup 120g plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 tbsp 45g unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 1 cup 240ml tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp 4g sugar
  • ½ cup 120ml heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp 6g freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Spices: 1 tsp 3g garlic powder, 1 tsp (3g) sweet paprika, 1 tsp (3g) curry powder, ½ tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional), 1 tsp (3g) garam masala, ½ tsp (1g) black pepper
  • For Serving: Naan bread and steamed rice

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken

  • In a medium bowl, I mix 1.5 lbs chicken thighs with ½ cup Greek yogurt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp sweet paprika, 1 tsp curry powder, and a pinch of salt. I stir to coat evenly and let it marinate for 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Cook the Chicken

  • I heat 3 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I add the marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. I remove the chicken and set it aside, keeping the oil in the skillet.

Prepare the Sauce Base

  • I lower the heat to medium and add 1 tbsp butter to the skillet. I deglaze with a splash of water if needed, scraping up browned bits. I add 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced onion, and a pinch of salt, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Build the Sauce

  • I stir in 1 cup tomato sauce and 1 tsp sugar, letting it simmer for 2–3 minutes. I return the chicken to the skillet, then pour in ½ cup heavy cream, stirring until the sauce turns a vibrant orange.

Season and Simmer

  • I add ½ tsp cayenne pepper (if using), 1 tsp garam masala, and ½ tsp black pepper. I let the sauce simmer on low for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Finish and Serve

  • I stir in 2 tbsp cold butter for a silky finish and sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped parsley if desired. I serve hot with warm naan and steamed rice, scooping generous portions for everyone.

Notes

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Keyword Homemade Butter Chicken