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Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

420kcal
Prep 15 minutes
Cook 30 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total 45 minutes
This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe features tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Servings 4 servings
Course Dinner
Cuisine Indian

Ingredients

For the Marinade
  • 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
For the Sauce
  • 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

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Large skillet
  • measuring spoons
  • measuring cups

Method

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  4. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Add the marinated chicken (discard excess marinade) to the pan and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until browned.
  7. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream, garam masala, and sugar (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  10. Serve hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.

Nutrition

Serving1servingCalories420kcalCarbohydrates10gProtein30gFat30gSaturated Fat15gPolyunsaturated Fat2gMonounsaturated Fat5gCholesterol120mgSodium780mgPotassium600mgFiber2gSugar4gVitamin A800IUVitamin C2mgCalcium100mgIron2mg

Notes

For a spicier kick, add chopped green chilies when sautéing the onion.

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