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Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe – A Creamy and Flavorful Classic

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Craving a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that tastes just like your favorite restaurant meal? This homemade Butter Chicken recipe is easy to make, packed with authentic flavors, and perfect for a comforting dinner. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a long-time fan, this recipe will bring the perfect balance of creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken to your table.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

The key ingredients that make Butter Chicken so rich and flavorful
How to prepare the best Homemade Butter Chicken
Pro tips for achieving that restaurant-quality taste
Creative twists to make it your own

Let’s get started!

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Chicken (Boneless, Skinless)

Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work best for Butter Chicken. Thighs are more tender and flavorful, but if you prefer lean meat, chicken breast is a great option.

Yogurt (for Marination)

Yogurt helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with rich flavors from the spices. It also gives the dish a slight tanginess.

Spices (Turmeric, Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala, Paprika, Chili Powder)

A blend of Indian spices adds warmth, depth, and a mild heat to the dish. Garam Masala is essential for the authentic Butter Chicken taste.

Garlic and Ginger (Minced or Paste)

These aromatics bring a fresh, bold, and slightly spicy flavor that enhances the dish.

Tomato Puree (or Canned Tomatoes)

The base of the sauce, tomatoes provide a rich, tangy flavor that balances out the creaminess.

Heavy Cream (or Full-Fat Coconut Milk)

Cream gives Butter Chicken its signature velvety texture and mild sweetness.

Butter

Butter enhances the richness of the dish, making it smooth and luxurious.

Honey or Sugar (Optional)

A touch of sweetness helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Fresh Cilantro (for Garnish)

Adds a burst of freshness and color to the final dish.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marination Time: 1 hour (or overnight for best results)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes (excluding marination)
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
½ tsp salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
½ tsp turmeric
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp chili powder (optional)
1 can (14 oz) tomato puree
½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
1 tsp honey or sugar (optional)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Step-by-Step Homemade Butter Chicken Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, ginger, and spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, chili powder, and salt).
Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).

Expert Tip: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Expert Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the chicken sears properly.

Step 3: Make the Butter Chicken Sauce

In the same pan, add butter and sauté the chopped onion until golden.
Add minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds to release the flavors.
Pour in the tomato puree and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and mix well.

Expert Tip: Simmering the tomato sauce helps reduce acidity and develop rich flavors.

Step 4: Add Cream and Final Touches

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add honey or sugar if needed to balance the flavors.
Taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.

Expert Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or chicken broth to loosen it.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top.
Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Presentation Tips

Serve Butter Chicken in a deep bowl with a swirl of extra cream for an elegant touch.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of garam masala.
Serve alongside warm naan or roti for a complete meal.

Creative Twists

Make It Spicier: Add extra chili powder or diced green chilies.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Grilled Butter Chicken: Instead of pan-frying, grill the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a delicious alternative.

Pro Tip for Customization

For a richer flavor, use cashew paste instead of heavy cream. Blend ¼ cup soaked cashews with a little water and add it to the sauce for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I freeze Butter Chicken?

Absolutely! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

3. What’s the best side dish for this Homemade Butter Chicken?

Basmati rice, naan, roti, or even quinoa pair beautifully with this dish.

4. Can I use store-bought curry paste?

Yes, but homemade spice blends give a fresher, more authentic taste.

5. How can I make this Homemade Butter Chicken low-carb?

Serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Butter Chicken recipe is a must-try if you love rich, creamy, and flavorful dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this classic Indian favorite at home. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress!

Got questions or feedback? Contact us at [email protected], and we’ll be happy to help!

Happy cooking!