If you have ever craved a restaurant-quality Indian dish that is both satisfying and straightforward to prepare, look no further than this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. This delightful dish combines tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious, fragrant tomato and cream sauce enhanced with warm spices. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent and special but is surprisingly simple to make in your own kitchen, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. You’ll soon see why this recipe becomes a beloved staple for anyone looking to bring bold, comforting flavors to the table without a hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe plays a crucial role to build layers of flavor, achieve the perfect creamy texture, and give the dish its signature vibrant color. With simple pantry staples and fresh aromatics, this ingredient list is all about balance and richness.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The tender, juicy chicken acts as the hearty centerpiece, absorbing the luscious sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a smooth, rich foundation to the sauce and helps develop that classic buttery flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and body after being sautéed to golden perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a savory depth and aromatic punch that’s essential in Indian cooking.
- 1-inch fresh ginger, grated: Offers a bright, slightly spicy undertone that balances the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and gives the dish a lovely, rich color.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Luxuriously thickens the sauce and adds silky smoothness.
- 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes: Adds acidity, texture, and freshness to the base of the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy aroma that grounds the spice mix.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Introduces a slightly citrusy note to brighten the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric: Gives the dish its iconic golden hue and subtle earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon garam masala: A fragrant blend that adds complexity and warmth to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Boosts color and delivers a mild smoky sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle sweet-spicy warmth for depth.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adjust to your preferred heat level—it delivers a gentle kick of spice.
- Salt to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional): Helps mellow out the tomato acidity if needed.
- Fresh cilantro: A bright, herbal garnish that adds fresh green notes at the end.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): Provides a lively pop of acidity to finish the dish.
How to Make Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your bite-sized chicken thighs and cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step not only seals in the juices but also delivers a beautiful caramelized flavor. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside while you build the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and toss in the finely chopped onion. Cook it until soft and golden, which should take about 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for another minute until the pan fills with mouthwatering aromas. These aromatics form the essential flavor base for the dish.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Next, sprinkle in all your spices: cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, cinnamon, and chili powder. Cooking these for 1 to 2 minutes releases their oils and intensifies their flavors, ensuring your sauce will have that signature warmth and complexity.
Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce
Now, add the tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the acidity to mellow and the flavors to combine into a rich, fragrant sauce base that is simply irresistible.
Step 5: Enrich with Cream
Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Simmer the sauce on low heat for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens up to a luscious consistency that will coat every bite of chicken perfectly.
Step 6: Add the Chicken Back In
Return your browned chicken pieces to the sauce, gently stirring to cover each one in that creamy goodness. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld while the chicken soaks up the richness.
Step 7: Balance and Brighten
Optional but highly recommended: stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance tomato acidity and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Finally, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for that classic finishing touch that elevates the dish visually and in taste.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
The last step is easy and the most rewarding. Serve your Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe alongside your favorite basmati rice or warm naan bread. You’ll be ready to indulge in a meal that feels like a celebration every single time.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is an absolute must for this butter chicken, adding a burst of freshness that balances the creamy richness. A light squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of cream can also make the presentation pop, giving your dish a restaurant-style finish right at home.
Side Dishes
Pairing this dish with fluffy basmati rice allows the sauce to soak in and makes every bite satisfying. Warm buttered naan or garlic naan is another classic choice that complements the flavors perfectly. For a lighter twist, try serving over sautéed veggies or with a crisp cucumber salad on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
You can impress guests by layering butter chicken over a bed of fragrant pulao rice or stuffing it into warm pita bread for an Indian-inspired wrap. Garnish with toasted nuts or seeds for texture, or add a dollop of yogurt to balance the spices. The possibilities are as fun as they are delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the sauce from drying out. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover butter chicken for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and maintain that creamy texture.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the butter chicken on a stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce silky and smooth. Adding a splash of cream or water can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender with this recipe. If using breasts, slice them evenly and take care not to overcook to avoid dryness.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is moderate and can be easily adjusted by changing the amount of chili powder. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the chili powder without sacrificing the overall taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with oil or dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream or another non-dairy cream alternative to maintain the creamy texture.
What type of rice goes best with butter chicken?
Basmati rice is the classic pairing for butter chicken due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy, separate grains that soak up the sauce perfectly.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cook time takes approximately 25 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal without compromising on flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a true joy to make and eat. It combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and simple ingredients to create a dish that feels both comforting and special. Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding loved ones, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll love every delicious bite!
Print
Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe offers a rich and creamy Indian classic that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Tender chicken thighs are cooked in a luscious tomato and cream sauce infused with aromatic spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric. Ready in just 35 minutes, this flavorful dish is garnished with fresh cilantro and pairs beautifully with basmati rice or naan bread.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Spice Mix
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pan or skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, cinnamon, and chili powder. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Add Tomato Base: Add the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes to the pan, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir thoroughly to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer gently on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the chicken absorb the flavors.
- Adjust Flavor: If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity from the tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a touch of brightness. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or over sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results compared to chicken breasts.
- The sugar is optional but helps balance the acidity from the tomatoes.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, though flavor will vary slightly.
- Butter chicken pairs excellently with basmati rice or naan.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2-3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
