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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 15 reviews

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe offers a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a spiced tomato and cream sauce. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal served with naan bread and steamed rice for a satisfying and comforting experience.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 1 ½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt

Cooking Ingredients

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

To Serve

  • Naan bread
  • Steamed rice

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, leaving the oil in the pan.
  3. Prepare the Sauce Base: Lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Deglaze the pan by scraping up any browned bits, adding a splash of water if necessary. Add the minced garlic and diced onion with a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously until the sauce acquires a rich, orange hue.
  5. Season and Simmer: Add cayenne pepper if using, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the spices to deepen the flavor. Adjust salt and other spices to taste during this simmering period.
  6. Finish with Butter: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter and allow it to melt into the sauce, creating a silky and luxurious texture. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top if desired for a fresh, colorful garnish.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the butter chicken hot alongside warm naan bread and steamed rice for a classic and delicious meal experience. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful dish with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer than 15 minutes (up to 2 hours) can enhance flavor and tenderness.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
  • Use heavy cream for best results; substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version but expect a different flavor profile.
  • Butter chicken sauce can be reheated gently on stovetop; add a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
  • Fresh cilantro can be used as an alternative garnish if parsley is unavailable.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/quick-and-easy-homemade-butter-chicken-recipe-3/