Description
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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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 cup plain yogurt
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp ginger, minced
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1 tbsp garlic, minced
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1 tsp garam masala
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1 tsp ground turmeric
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1 tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp chili powder
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½ tsp salt
For the Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp ginger, minced
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp garam masala
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp ground coriander
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1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 tbsp butter (for finishing)
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1 tsp sugar (optional, balances the acidity)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
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1 tsp cayenne pepper for extra heat
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1 tbsp tomato paste for a deeper tomato flavor
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A pinch of ground cinnamon for warmth
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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired / Comfort Food