Description
Indulge in the comforting richness of Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken — a flavorful Indian classic made easy in your own kitchen. This easy recipe features tender marinated chicken simmered in a silky, spiced tomato and butter sauce that’s both aromatic and crowd-pleasing. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or when you’re craving satisfying food ideas. Pair it with naan or basmati rice for an irresistible combo that ranks high among dinner ideas and cozy comfort meals. Whether you’re exploring healthy snack options with lean chicken or searching for a hearty, easy dinner, this dish delivers on flavor and ease.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
0.75 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger paste
1 tbsp garlic paste
1 tsp turmeric powder
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1.5 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
1 tbsp oil (optional)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1.5 tbsp garlic paste
1 tbsp ginger paste
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1.5 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
1.5 cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp sugar (optional)
0.5 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and spices. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat butter and oil in a pan. Sear the chicken in batches until browned. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté onions until golden. Add garlic and ginger paste and cook until fragrant.
4. Add cumin, paprika, chili powder, and garam masala. Stir to bloom the spices.
5. Add tomato puree and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thick and rich.
6. Blend the sauce for a smooth texture using an immersion or countertop blender.
7. Return sauce to pan and stir in cream, butter, and sugar. Simmer for a few minutes.
8. Add chicken back into the sauce and simmer on low until cooked through and tender.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
Marinate overnight if possible to deepen the flavor.
Blend the sauce for a truly creamy, restaurant-style consistency.
Use chicken thighs for maximum tenderness and moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 135mg