This quick and easy homemade butter chicken is the ultimate comfort food. Tender pieces of chicken are coated in warm spices, simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce, and finished with butter for a smooth, rich texture. It’s a restaurant-style dish that comes together easily in your own kitchen and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken recipe is simple, fast, and packed with flavor. It uses everyday ingredients, requires minimal prep, and delivers a creamy, satisfying dish without complicated steps. The balance of spices, tomato sauce, and cream makes it comforting without being overpowering, and it pairs beautifully with naan bread or steamed rice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken and marinade
1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt

For the butter chicken sauce
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon curry powder
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley, optional

For serving
Naan bread
Steamed rice

Directions

In a medium bowl, add the chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, leaving the oil in the pan.

Lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and diced onion with a small pinch of salt. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.

Pour in the tomato sauce and add the sugar. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix until coated in the sauce.

Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce turns a smooth, creamy orange color. Add black pepper, cayenne pepper if using, garam masala, and curry powder. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes so the flavors can blend.

Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: approximately 50 minutes

Variations

You can use skinless boneless chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter.
Add extra heat by increasing the cayenne pepper or adding a pinch of chili powder.
For a richer flavor, substitute part of the butter with ghee.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but it may be slightly less juicy. Be careful not to overcook it.

Is this butter chicken very spicy?

No, it is mildly spiced. You can adjust the heat by adding or omitting cayenne pepper.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

It pairs perfectly with naan bread, steamed rice, or plain basmati rice.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute coconut cream or half-and-half for a lighter option.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with ⅓ cup water, add it to the sauce, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

What type of tomato sauce should I use?

Use plain tomato sauce without added herbs or seasonings for the best flavor balance.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, bell peppers or peas can be added during the simmering stage.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding the cream and stir continuously.

Conclusion

This quick and easy homemade butter chicken is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe you can confidently make anytime you’re craving a comforting, homemade meal. Serve it with warm naan and rice, and enjoy a classic dish made effortlessly at home.

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