Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
A cozy, creamy butter chicken you can make at home in under 45 minutes! Tender chicken, velvety sauce, and aromatic spices make this comforting dish taste just like your favorite Indian restaurant only easier.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan Heavy-bottomed for even heat
- Sharp knife For chopping chicken and aromatics
- cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring sauce
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- Steamed rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and yogurt. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you prep the rest.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Lower heat to medium. Add a tablespoon of butter, garlic, and onion. Sauté until the onion softens and smells sweet.
- Add tomato sauce and sugar. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes. Return chicken to the pan and stir in cream.
- Sprinkle in cayenne, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Simmer on low for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Drop in remaining cold butter and stir until melted. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
This butter chicken is rich, flavorful, and simple enough for a weeknight. Adjust spice to taste, and always finish with butter for that signature silky texture.