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A close-up of a creamy butter chicken dish served in a white bowl, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. The chicken pieces are coated in a rich, orange-tinted sauce with visible spices and a hint of butter's sheen, accompanied by a side of steamed rice and sliced naan bread. The dish is set on a rustic wooden table with a spoon resting beside it.

Rich & Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken: Your New Go-To Dinner!

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Discover the rich and creamy homemade butter chicken, a comforting Indian-inspired dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Juicy chicken simmered in a flavorful spiced tomato sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. This easy butter chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and a luscious creamy sauce, making it your new go-to dinner idea. Ideal for serving with steamed rice or warm naan bread, this dish is a guaranteed family favorite that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant. Pour in tomato puree, cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add additional spices if desired.
  4. Mix in heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring well. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in a tablespoon of butter or ghee for extra richness. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot over steamed rice or warm naan bread.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for maximum flavor depth.
  • Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight for more intense flavor.
  • Finish with a drizzle of fresh cream or a dollop of butter for creaminess.
  • Adjust spice levels to suit your taste—add more chili for heat or more garam masala for aroma.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg