Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Rich, creamy, and packed with warm spices, this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food you can make right at home. Tender chicken is simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce, finished with cream and butter for a luxurious, mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. It’s simple, flavorful, and better than takeout!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Flavorful – A perfect balance of spices and creaminess.
Easy to Make – Simple steps for a restaurant-quality dish.
Family Favorite – Mild enough for kids but flavorful enough for adults.
Ready in Under an Hour – Perfect for weeknights or weekends.
Perfect with Rice or Naan – Makes a hearty, satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter (for finishing)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances the acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper for extra heat
• 1 tbsp tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor
• A pinch of ground cinnamon for warmth

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Tongs or spatula
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced ginger, minced garlic, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken in batches, searing until browned on all sides (it doesn’t have to be fully cooked).
Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter.
Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds.
Add cumin, garam masala, paprika, and coriander. Cook the spices for 1 minute to release their aromas.

Step 4: Simmer
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well.
Simmer for 8–10 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
Add sugar if desired.

Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the chicken to the skillet.
Stir in the heavy cream and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Simmer on low heat for another 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread.

Tips for Success
Marinate for Extra Flavor – Even 30 minutes makes a big difference!
Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Simmer gently to keep it tender.
Adjust Spice Levels – Add cayenne or chili powder to your taste.
Use Heavy Cream – It gives the sauce the signature richness.
Cook Spices First – It deepens the flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions
With Basmati Rice – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
With Warm Naan – The best for scooping every last bite.
With Cucumber Raita – A cool, refreshing contrast.
With a Simple Salad – Lightens up the rich meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store cooled butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze cooled butter chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Microwave: Warm in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful.
2. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Substitute the yogurt and cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I make it spicier?
   Add more chili powder, cayenne, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. Can I use store-bought butter chicken sauce?
   You can, but homemade sauce has fresher, richer flavor.
5. What if I don’t have garam masala?
   You can mix ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, and a pinch of cinnamon as a substitute.

Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is creamy, savory, and so satisfying—perfect for anyone craving rich Indian-inspired flavors made simple at home. With tender chicken, warm spices, and a luscious sauce, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu!

Simmer up a skillet today and enjoy restaurant-quality butter chicken without leaving your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your butter chicken creations online!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (+ marinating time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired / Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 6):
Calories: 370 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Fat: 26g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 450mg

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