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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.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 430 kcal

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.
Keyword butter chicken, creamy chicken pasta, Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe