Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Homemade Butter Chicken – Rich, Creamy, and Flavorful


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 50 minutes (excluding marinating)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A rich and creamy Indian dish made with tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce with butter and cream. Perfect with naan or rice.


Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • Salt, to taste
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, coriander, and salt. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
  2. Heat 1 tbsp butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until golden and fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato puree and simmer for 5 minutes. Add cream and water (or broth) and stir until smooth.
  5. Return chicken to the pan and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens.
  6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Notes

  • Adjust chili powder to your spice preference.
  • For extra richness, stir in 1 tbsp cashew paste or almond paste to the sauce.
  • This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
  • Pairs well with garlic naan or steamed basmati rice.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian