Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A plate of homemade butter chicken garnished with fresh cilantro, served with steamed rice and naan bread.

Homemade Butter Chicken: Easy Indian Delight

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Homemade Butter Chicken: Easy Indian Delight 🍛🧈🔥 is a rich and flavorful Indian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners, this authentic recipe combines aromatic spices and velvety texture to rival restaurant-quality butter chicken in your own kitchen. Enjoy the perfect balance of spice and creaminess with minimal effort, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks eager to elevate their Indian cuisine repertoire.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500 grams (1 lb) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 large tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt and a pinch of salt; let sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate up to 2 hours.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in spices like garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder; toast the spices for aroma.
  4. Add pureed or chopped tomatoes, cook until the oil separates from the mixture, about 10 minutes.
  5. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and tender.
  6. Reduce heat to low; stir in remaining butter and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors into a rich, buttery sauce.

Notes

  • Use high-quality fresh spices for maximum flavor.
  • Marinating the chicken enhances tenderness and flavor.
  • Adjust chili and spice levels to your heat preference.
  • For a smoky flavor, briefly grill the chicken before adding to the sauce.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Dairy

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg