Name: Delicious Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken thighs (or breasts depending on preference); 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (substitute with plant-based yogurt for dairy-free); 1 cup Tomato Sauce (can use crushed tomatoes for texture); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (or use coconut cream for dairy-free); 4 tablespoons Butter (half for cooking chicken and half for sauce); 1 medium Onion (diced); 4 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons Curry Powder (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Garam Masala; 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor); 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne (add more for extra spice); 1 teaspoon Sugar (can use honey or maple syrup); 2 tablespoons Parsley or Cilantro (freshly chopped; basil can be a substitute)

The aroma of spices fills my kitchen as I prepare for a weeknight culinary adventure. Today, I’m excited to whip up my Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken—a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels indulgent without the fuss. This comforting recipe features tender chicken enveloped in a velvety, rich tomato-cream sauce, making it an approachable favorite for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. Not only is it a delightful crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together in just a snap, perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something special. What if I told you that you could recreate this restaurant-quality dish right at home? Let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey together!

Why is Homemade Butter Chicken So Loved?

Comforting, this dish brings warmth and joy to your dinner table, making any weeknight feel special.
Quick & Easy, with a straightforward cooking process, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings.
Versatile, you can easily substitute chicken for tofu or chickpeas, catering to different dietary preferences.
Flavor-Packed, the combination of spices infuses every bite, delivering a vibrant culinary experience.
Crowd-Pleaser, whether you have family or guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone and leave them asking for seconds!
And if you enjoy this, don’t miss out on my Garlic Butter Steak or the zesty Tahini Chicken Peach.

Homemade Butter Chicken Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for the perfect dish!

For the Chicken

Chicken – Chicken thighs add juiciness, while breasts are leaner; choose based on your preference.
Greek Yogurt – Acts as a marinade to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor; substitute with plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.

For the Sauce

Tomato Sauce – The base of your sauce provides acidity and sweetness; you can use crushed tomatoes for more texture.
Heavy Cream – Adds a rich creaminess; for a lighter version, coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
Butter (2 types) – Half for cooking chicken and half for the sauce, though olive oil can be used for a lighter dish.
Onion – Diced onion sweetens the sauce; consider shallots or leeks for variety.
Garlic – Fresh garlic elevates flavor; use minced for the best results.

For the Spices

Curry Powder – This spice offers warmth and depth; adjust to your desired spice level.
Garam Masala – A key player in Indian cuisine, it adds aromatic complexity.
Paprika – Brings color and mild flavor; smoked paprika can add an extra flavor dimension.
Cayenne – For those who like it spicy; increase the amount for an extra kick.
Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes; honey or maple syrup are suitable alternatives.

For the Garnish

Parsley/Cilantro – Fresh herbs add vibrancy and color; basil can be a delightful substitute.

Get ready to create a comforting dish that not only tastes incredible but is also a family favorite! Enjoy whipping up this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe that will leave everyone wanting more.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a bowl, combine chunks of chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Sear Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add half of the butter along with a splash of oil. Once the butter has melted and is bubbly, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. When the chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen as you prepare this rich base for your Homemade Butter Chicken.

Step 4: Mix Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, along with sugar, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes. You should notice the vibrant color of the sauce deepening while it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce
Lower the heat and gradually pour in the heavy cream while continuously stirring to achieve a velvety texture. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, until it thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy. You’ll see that rich, smooth consistency perfect for enveloping the chicken.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is well coated with the sauce. Add the garam masala and continue to cook for another 8-10 minutes, heating through until the chicken is fully cooked. To check for doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Homemade Butter Chicken with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. For an extra touch of richness, swirl in a bit more cream before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish paired with naan bread or basmati rice to soak up the delectable sauce.

Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish uniquely yours!

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas for a satisfying veggie version. Just marinate your tofu like the chicken for an extra flavor boost.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based option. Your dish will still embrace a creamy texture without dairy.
Chunky Sauce: For a different texture, substitute tomato sauce with crushed tomatoes or add in finely chopped bell peppers or peas. This will create delightful bursts of flavor and color!
Extra Spicy: Amp up your dish by increasing the cayenne pepper or adding chopped fresh chilies. Serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who love that extra heat.
Herb Explosion: Elevate freshness by mixing in fresh herbs like basil or mint along with parsley or cilantro as a garnishing touch. This brightens up the richness of the sauce beautifully.
Nutty Flavor: For added depth, mix in a tablespoon of almond or cashew butter when you add the cream. This will lend a luxurious nuttiness to the sauce that is simply divine.
Curry Add-in: For a unique flavor twist, add a tablespoon of your favorite curry paste to the sauce for an explosion of spices! It’s a fun way to experiment with different regional flavors.
Zesty Kick: Incorporate the juice of half a lemon or lime just before serving. This adds a fresh, zesty punch that cuts through the richness and elevates the dish.

These variations can make your homemade butter chicken stand out even more! If you’re looking for another delicious option, try out my savory Garlic Butter Steak or the vibrant Fiery Chicken Ramen.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken preparations are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken with yogurt and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate and enhance tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead—just refrigerate it after cooking, and it will maintain its creamy richness. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove to prevent separation, then add in the seared chicken and cook for another 8-10 minutes. This way, you enjoy restaurant-quality results on what might otherwise be a hectic weeknight!

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Butter Chicken

Fridge: Keep your homemade butter chicken in an airtight container; it stays fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to maintain its richness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your butter chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating: Reheat slowly on low heat to prevent sauce separation. Stir occasionally and add a little water or cream if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep—make it ahead of time and enjoy the convenience of a delicious homemade dinner ready to go!

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

The perfect meal pairs flavors and textures, making for a delightful dining experience that captures the heart of every meal.

Steamed Basmati Rice: A fluffy bed of basmati rice absorbs the rich sauce, enhancing the comforting qualities of the butter chicken.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the creamy sauce, delivering a satisfying bite.
Cucumber Salad: Crunchy cucumber salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, brightening up the palate with each bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a balance of sweetness and earthiness, complementing the dish’s spicy notes beautifully.
Mango Chutney: The sweetness of mango chutney harmonizes with the spiciness of the butter chicken, creating an exciting flavor combination.
Mint Yogurt Sauce: A cooling mint yogurt sauce provides a fresh contrast to the heat, making each mouthful delightfully refreshing.
Lemonade or Lassi: Pair with a chilled glass of homemade lemonade or spiced lassi to cleanse the palate while enhancing the meal experience.
Gulab Jamun: End on a sweet note with these soft, syrup-soaked treats that contrast the savory dish, creating a delightful finish to your dinner.

Tips for the Best Homemade Butter Chicken

• Marination Matters: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor. Overnight marination offers even richer taste in your homemade butter chicken recipe.

• Searing Technique: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken; proper searing locks in juices and creates a golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste the sauce before serving. If you prefer more heat, gradually increase the cayenne pepper. Remember, less is more when adjusting spices initially!

• Creamy Consistency: When adding heavy cream, pour it in slowly while stirring to prevent separation. A gentle simmer helps achieve the desired velvety texture without curdling.

• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid dry meat.

• Serving Tips: Pair with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice to soak up the rich sauce for an enjoyable dining experience.

Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for butter chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs for juiciness, but chicken breasts are great if you prefer leaner meat. Both options work well in this recipe, so choose based on your family’s preference and dietary needs.

How should I store leftover homemade butter chicken?
You can store your homemade butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool before sealing. When ready to enjoy again, reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream to keep it nice and rich.

Can I freeze homemade butter chicken?
Very! To freeze your butter chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a bit of cream or water to adjust the texture if necessary.

What if the sauce is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If your sauce thickens too much during reheating, simply add a little heavy cream or water to loosen it. Stir well while warming it on low heat to maintain that velvety texture. Adjust slowly until you achieve the desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this homemade butter chicken recipe dairy-free by substituting Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The flavors will still be rich and decadent, perfect for all palates!

Is it safe to feed homemade butter chicken to pets?
While your homemade butter chicken is delicious for you, it’s best to avoid sharing it with pets. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always check with your vet to ensure you’re feeding your furry friends safe foods!