Go Back
+ servings
Homemade Butter Chicken

Homemade Butter Chicken: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

Savor the coziness of homemade comfort food with every spoonful of this creamy Butter Chicken! Perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marination Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs Tender and juicy finish
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Use plain dairy-free yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to personal preference
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Substitute fresh garlic for a stronger taste
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Try smoked paprika for a new flavor profile
  • 1 tablespoon Curry Powder An Indian curry blend lends authenticity
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with additional oil for a dairy-free version
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil Olive oil works as a great substitute
  • 1 medium Onion (diced) Yellow or white onions are best
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Adjust amount based on desired garlic flavor
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Avoid substitutes for best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Adjust to taste for balancing acidity
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Feel free to increase or decrease to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional) Adjust based on desired spice level
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Replace with coconut cream for a dairy-free version
  • 1 tablespoon Garam Masala Essential for authentic butter chicken flavor
For Garnish and Serving
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (optional) Can be omitted if not on hand
  • 4 pieces Naan Bread Perfect for soaking up the sauce
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice A great accompaniment

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Medium Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Butter Chicken
  1. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Cover and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet to deglaze the pan, and add garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, allow to simmer for 3-4 minutes before returning the cooked chicken to the skillet.
  5. Add cayenne pepper, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Let everything simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate chicken longer for richer flavor, monitor cooking temperature for safety, and use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!