There’s nothing like the warm embrace of a home-cooked meal, and this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe has a way of making even the busiest days feel special. The moment that rich, fragrant sauce begins to simmer on the stove, I’m taken back to the vibrant colors and bold spices of my favorite Indian restaurants. This dish combines tender, marinated chicken with a luscious tomato and cream sauce, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting feast.
After a long week of takeout and rushed dinners, I craved something homemade that didn’t require an entire day in the kitchen. Enter this recipe! With just a handful of spices and a few key ingredients, you can impress your family and even yourself with a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste—want more heat? Toss in an extra pinch of chili powder! Want it a bit tangier? A splash more lemon juice can do the trick.
Join me as we dive into this culinary adventure, perfect for any occasion, that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite in no time!
Why You'll Love This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to meal for any night of the week.
- The rich and creamy sauce is packed with flavor, transporting you straight to the heart of India with every bite.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize the spice levels and add your favorite ingredients to make it truly your own.
- With a total prep and cook time of just 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy evenings when you still want to enjoy something special.
- The stunning presentation garnished with fresh cilantro will make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any dinner table, and it’s sure to please a crowd, leaving everyone asking for seconds!
Homemade Butter Chicken Ingredients
• Create a symphony of flavors with these ingredients!
For the Marinade
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – a moist and tender option that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- Plain yogurt – helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a creamy texture to the dish.
- Lemon juice – brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the cream.
- Garam masala – a warm spice blend that imparts the signature Indian flavor to the dish.
- Ground cumin – adds earthy notes to the marinade, enhancing the overall depth.
- Ground coriander – offers a citrusy undertone that complements the spices.
- Turmeric – brings color and anti-inflammatory benefits; it’s a must for a vibrant sauce!
- Chili powder – adds heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning, bringing out the richness of the chicken.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted butter – creates a rich base for the flavorful sauce.
- Onion – caramelizes to enhance the sweetness and depth of the sauce.
- Garlic – adds a fragrant kick, essential for any great curry.
- Ginger – provides a warm, zesty flavor that’s the heart of this dish.
- Crushed tomatoes – form the base of the sauce, giving it richness and depth.
- Heavy cream – ensures the sauce is luxuriously creamy; the secret to butter chicken!
- Sugar (optional) – a touch can balance the acidity of the tomatoes for a well-rounded flavor.
- Fresh cilantro – for garnishing; adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note.
This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe brings together these delightful ingredients to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious! Enjoy the process of cooking and let the aromas fill your kitchen.
How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken
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Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This delightful mixture will coat your chicken in flavor, so stir well until blended!
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Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight if you can.
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Melt the Butter: In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. This step brings a rich, creamy texture to the sauce that will elevate your dish.
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Sauté the Onion: Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. This will lay the foundation for sweetness in your sauce!
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen and excite your senses.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken (discard excess marinade) to the pan and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. The chicken should be golden and juicy!
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Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and meld beautifully.
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Creamy Finish: Stir in the heavy cream, garam masala, and sugar (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. This adds a pop of freshness that complements the rich flavors perfectly.
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Enjoy! Serve the Butter Chicken hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a delightful meal.
Optional: For a spicy kick, add a few chopped green chilies when sautéing the onion!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Homemade Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the butter chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain its creamy texture, reheat the chicken slowly over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Serving Suggestions: Always garnish with fresh cilantro after reheating to keep the dish vibrant and flavorful!
Homemade Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds!
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Spicy Twist: Add extra chili powder or fresh chopped green chilies to the marinade for an added kick. This will make every bite a fiery delight!
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Yogurt Alternative: Swap plain yogurt for coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option that still brings creaminess. It adds a hint of sweetness and tropical flavor to the dish.
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with cauliflower florets or chickpeas. Both options soak up the sauce beautifully, making for a hearty meal packed with nutrients.
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Lighter Sauce: Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing all the creaminess. Just remember to simmer a bit longer to let it thicken!
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavors with fresh herbs like mint or basil. Stir in chopped herbs at the end for a burst of freshness that elevates the whole dish.
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Nutty Flavor: Add ground almonds or cashews to the sauce for added texture and a nutty depth. This twist offers richness and a delightful crunch in every bite.
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Savory Add-In: Incorporate sautéed spinach or peas to the sauce for a nutrient boost. These greens add color and a fresh taste, brightening the dish magnificently.
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Gluten-Free Option: Serve the butter chicken with quinoa or gluten-free naan to ensure everyone at your table can indulge without any worries. This allows everyone to enjoy this comforting meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the yogurt mixture up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor wonderfully. Additionally, the sautéed onion, garlic, and ginger can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, just reheat the aromatics in the skillet, add the marinated chicken, and follow the cooking steps to finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a dish that remains just as delicious and rich, giving you a comforting meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Homemade Butter Chicken?
There’s something magical about creating a complete meal experience that makes you feel at home, and the right sides can turn this delicious main dish into a cherished feast.
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Fluffy Basmati Rice: Perfectly cooked basmati rice soaks up the rich sauce, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
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Garlic Naan: Warm, buttery naan is a delightful way to scoop up that creamy sauce, enhancing the meal with its chewy texture and heavenly garlic aroma.
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Crispy Samosas: These golden pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat add a satisfying crunch and add an exciting element of variety to your dinner table.
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Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt sauce balances the spice of the butter chicken and adds a refreshing crunch from the cucumber.
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Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach with tender cheese cubes provides a leafy green option that pairs perfectly with the richness of your main dish.
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Lemon-infused Quinoa: A zesty, nutritious side that complements the spices in the chicken, while its nutty texture offers a wonderful contrast.
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Mango Lassi: This sweet, creamy drink serves as a delightful accompaniment, cooling your palate while enhancing the meal’s flavors with its fruity notes.
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Cardamom-infused Chai: End your dinner on a warm note with this aromatic beverage, whose spices echo the ones in your butter chicken, creating a sense of harmony in your meal.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Homemade Butter Chicken, ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to seep in, but longer is better for maximum taste.
- Common mistakes include rushing the sauté process; be sure to let the onions cook until they’re nicely softened to build a richer flavor base.
- When adding the heavy cream, consider warming it slightly before incorporating it into the sauce to prevent curdling.
- Lastly, always let the butter melt completely before adding other ingredients to achieve that smooth, creamy texture in the sauce.
Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe tomatoes for the sauce?
Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes for your Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, look for ones that are firm yet slightly yielding to pressure. They should have a vibrant red color without dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using canned tomatoes, opt for high-quality brands that list whole or crushed tomatoes without added sugars or preservatives.
What’s the best way to store leftover butter chicken?
Very! Store your leftover Homemade Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation buildup, which can alter its texture. Reheat gently to keep it creamy—either on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze homemade butter chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze your Homemade Butter Chicken, let it cool completely and transfer it into a sealed container or a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently with a splash of cream or water to revive its rich sauce.
What should I do if my butter chicken sauce is too thick?
Not a problem! If your sauce ends up too thick, simply stir in a little warm water, cream, or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Adding just a touch at a time will help you find the perfect creaminess. Remember, slow reheating on low heat is key, as it allows the flavors to meld together.
Can I make this butter chicken recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free or vegan version of the Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative such as cashew cream. Use a plant-based yogurt in the marinade and omit the butter, instead using coconut oil or vegan butter. Adjust the spices to taste, and you’ll have a deliciously unique dish!
Is this recipe safe for my dog to eat?
Be cautious! While plain cooked chicken is generally safe for dogs, be sure to avoid giving them any of the spices or garlic used in this recipe. If you’d like to share a little of your butter chicken with your furry friend, ensure it’s plain, unseasoned chicken without any sauce for safety.
Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs a moist and tender option
- 1 cup plain yogurt helps tenderize the chicken
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice balances the richness
- 1 tablespoon garam masala imparts Indian flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin adds earthy notes
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander offers citrusy undertone
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric brings color
- 1 teaspoon chili powder adds heat
- to taste salt essential for seasoning
- to taste pepper essential for seasoning
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter creates a rich base
- 1 medium onion caramelizes for sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic adds fragrance
- 1 tablespoon ginger provides a zesty flavor
- 1 can crushed tomatoes forms the sauce base
- 1/2 cup heavy cream adds creaminess
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
- to taste fresh cilantro for garnishing
Method
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken (discard excess marinade) to the pan and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until browned.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, garam masala, and sugar (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.
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