Table of Contents
Description
Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and packed with bold spices — an easy homemade dinner that tastes better than restaurant takeout!
Introduction
Few dishes are as comforting and crave-worthy as Butter Chicken. With its velvety tomato-based sauce, warm spices, and tender pieces of chicken, this classic recipe has earned a permanent spot on dinner tables around the world — including right here in the U.S. If you’ve ever ordered butter chicken at a restaurant and wished you could recreate that same rich flavor at home, you’re in the right place. 🍗🧈
This homemade butter chicken recipe is surprisingly simple, even for beginners. It uses easy-to-find ingredients, comes together in one pan, and delivers that signature creamy texture without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, this is one of those easy recipes that feels special every single time.
Even better, you can customize it to fit different lifestyles — make it lighter, dairy-adjusted, or even low-carb-friendly by serving it with cauliflower rice instead of naan. One bite of this cozy, flavorful dish, and you’ll understand why butter chicken is loved across cultures.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
For the Butter Chicken Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1½ cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Why these ingredients work:
The yogurt marinade keeps the chicken juicy, butter adds richness, tomatoes bring gentle acidity, and warm spices create that iconic butter chicken flavor.
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Thighs: Juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work well too.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control seasoning.
- Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature silky texture.
- Spices: Adjust heat levels easily without losing depth of flavor.
Recipe Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Recipe Stat Sheet (Quick View)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | Indian-Inspired |
| Diet | Gluten-Free |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and salt. Add chicken pieces and toss until fully coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until lightly golden on the outside. Remove and set aside — it will finish cooking later.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter until bubbly and fragrant. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden. Stir in garlic and ginger, letting their aroma bloom.
Step 4: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Stir gently, then add tomato puree. Simmer until the sauce thickens and turns deep red.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Add the chicken back to the pan and let everything simmer together until the sauce is thick, creamy, and irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh cilantro and a final swirl of butter for extra shine.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Extra Creamy: Add an extra tablespoon of butter at the end.
- Spicy Version: Increase chili powder or add cayenne.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of naan.
- Dairy-Light: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Butter chicken tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
These easy swaps make the recipe flexible without sacrificing its signature comfort.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Butter Chicken with:
- Warm naan or garlic naan
- Steamed basmati rice
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal
- A simple cucumber salad for freshness
It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or cozy nights in.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: ~430
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
(Values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.)
This Butter Chicken recipe proves that restaurant-quality comfort food can be made right at home — no complicated steps required. Creamy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Give it a try, share it with friends, and let us know how it turned out in the comments. If you loved it, don’t forget to save and share this recipe for your next cozy dinner night! ❤️