There’s something magical about a dish that can bring everyone to the table without a word. Homemade butter chicken is one of those meals. It’s creamy, spiced just right, and incredibly satisfying. For me, it carries the same warmth as my nonna’s tomato sauces simmering in her Sicilian kitchen. This recipe may not come from her notes, but it carries the same message; food should feel like care. With just a few pantry spices, tender chicken, and a touch of cream, you’ll have a dish that’s rich enough for gatherings yet simple enough for a weeknight.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
Homemade butter chicken is the kind of dish that makes a table feel warm and complete. Growing up, I often watched my nonna prepare rich tomato sauces that simmered slowly, filling the house with comfort. While her roots were Sicilian, she believed in the universal language of food; flavor that wraps you in care. This recipe carries that same heart. You’ll love it because it balances creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and just the right blend of spices. Unlike heavy restaurant versions, this one is cozy yet light enough for a weeknight dinner. If you’ve enjoyed making something hearty like my Stick of Butter Rice, you’ll find this dish equally satisfying in its simplicity.
Butter chicken is also versatile. It pairs well with rice, naan, or even roasted vegetables. You’ll find yourself making it again and again, not just because it tastes amazing but because it brings people together around the table.
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Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Rich, creamy homemade butter chicken with tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-cream sauce. Perfect with rice or naan.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp chili powder
2 tbsp butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp salt
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Add chicken and marinate at least 1 hour.
2. Heat butter in skillet, sear chicken until browned but not fully cooked. Remove.
3. In the same pan, cook onion, garlic, and ginger until golden. Add tomatoes and simmer 10 minutes.
4. Return chicken, stir in cream, and simmer 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
Coconut milk or cashew cream can replace heavy cream.
Make sauce ahead and freeze for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Ingredients
What makes butter chicken shine is its balance between spices and creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need for a family-sized serving (4–6 portions):
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for marinating)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
The marinade is key; it infuses the chicken with flavor before it ever hits the pan. Much like preparing a base for healthy shredded chicken, marinating ensures tenderness and depth of taste.
How to Make It
Making butter chicken at home is easier than it looks, and most of the magic comes from patience.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Toss the chicken until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet with 1 tablespoon butter. Cook marinated chicken until browned on all sides but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until golden. Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Return chicken to the pan. Add cream and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and sauce is thick and silky. Season with salt.
It’s similar to creating layers of flavor in dishes like pepper steak; you build richness step by step.
Tips and Variations
Homemade butter chicken adapts beautifully to your kitchen style.
- Dairy Alternatives: Swap cream for coconut milk if you prefer dairy-free. It adds a gentle sweetness.
- Spice Control: Adjust chili powder based on your heat preference. For a milder version, cut it in half.
- Protein Variations: Try using paneer, shrimp, or even chickpeas to create vegetarian or pescatarian twists.
- Make Ahead: The sauce freezes well. Prepare it ahead, then add fresh protein when reheating.
Serving butter chicken with fluffy rice is traditional, but don’t overlook fun pairings. Just like when making smothered steak or rice-based casseroles, a buttery carb base makes every bite shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes butter chicken different from chicken tikka masala?
Butter chicken has a creamier, more buttery sauce with slightly sweeter notes, while tikka masala leans more tomato-forward with a spicier edge.
Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes, use coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free version. It will still be rich and comforting.
What’s the best way to serve butter chicken?
Serve with basmati rice or naan bread. It also pairs well with roasted veggies or whole roasted cauliflower.
How long does homemade butter chicken last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion
Homemade butter chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a dish that transforms simple ingredients into something worth sharing. From the marinated chicken to the velvety sauce, every step adds up to comfort in a bowl. It’s proof that a weeknight meal can feel like a celebration, especially when served alongside naan or rice. Like many of my favorite dishes, it’s not about perfection but about creating moments that feel warm and memorable. Cook it once, and it’ll likely find a permanent place in your kitchen rotation.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
