There’s something magical about making Homemade Butter Chicken with the kids in the kitchen. I remember the first time I tried this recipe with my little ones—they loved helping me stir the creamy tomato sauce and sprinkle the spices. The rich, buttery flavor filled the house, and it instantly became a family favorite. This easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, giving you a restaurant-quality dish right at home in under 30 minutes.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits Homemade Butter Chicken
- Quick and Easy Dinner: This homemade butter chicken comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: Creamy, mildly spiced, and rich in buttery goodness, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Protein-Rich Meal: Packed with tender chicken, it provides a satisfying and nutritious main course.
- Restaurant-Style at Home: Enjoy the taste of classic Indian butter chicken without leaving your kitchen.
- Versatile Recipe: Pair it with rice, naan, or even pasta for a variety of meal options.
Ingredients Homemade Butter Chicken
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions Homemade Butter Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor). - Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté chopped onions until golden and soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. - Simmer the Chicken in Sauce:
Stir in tomato puree, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add the partially cooked chicken. Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream. Let it cook gently for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is creamy. - Finish and Garnish:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve hot with naan, basmati rice, or your favorite side dish.
MORE RECIPE
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- Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
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Pro Tips and Variations Homemade Butter Chicken
- Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: Thighs stay tender and flavorful even after simmering, but breasts work if you prefer lean meat.
- Adjust Spice Levels: For a milder dish, reduce chili powder. For a spicier kick, add extra chili or a pinch of cayenne.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a tablespoon of yogurt or extra cream at the end for an ultra-rich sauce.
- Add Yogurt or Cashew Paste: For a silky texture, blend cashews with water or mix yogurt into the sauce before simmering.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This butter chicken freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months and reheat gently on the stove.
- Variations: Try adding bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with steaming basmati rice to soak up the creamy butter sauce.
- Pair with fresh naan or roti for a classic Indian-style meal.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.
- Add a side of cucumber salad or raita to balance the richness.
- For a complete dinner, serve with roasted vegetables or lightly sautéed greens.
FOR MORE RECIPE ON MY PINTERET
Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make Homemade Butter Chicken that’s perfect for family dinners. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb 450g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece ginger grated
- 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chili powder adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook 5–6 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sauté onions until golden, 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Simmer in Sauce: Stir in tomato puree, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken, reduce heat, pour in cream, and simmer 10–12 minutes until fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or side salad.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Adjust chili powder for spice preference.
- Add yogurt or cashew paste for a creamier sauce.
- Freeze leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 months.
- Optional: add bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for variety.