Name: Delicious Butter Chicken for Ultimate Comfort Food Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken thighs (or turkey/paneer for vegetarian); 1 tsp salt (to taste); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or regular yogurt); 1 tsp garlic powder (or fresh garlic); 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp curry powder (plus more if desired); 3 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive/coconut oil); 3 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 onion (diced); 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes); 1 tsp sugar (optional); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free); 1 tsp garam masala; fresh parsley (for garnish)

Tucked into the comfort of my kitchen, I discovered the ultimate solution for weeknight dinners: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken. This dish is a delightful fusion of creamy goodness and warm spices that transport you straight to India with every bite. Not only is it incredibly simple to whip up, but it’s also a fantastic way to impress family and friends who appreciate hearty, home-cooked meals. Whether paired with soft naan to soak up the luscious sauce or fluffy rice to balance the flavors, this butter chicken recipe promises to become a beloved staple in your household. Are you ready to dive into a world of comforting flavors with just a few effortless steps?

Why is Butter Chicken So Irresistible?

Comforting, Creamy Delight: This butter chicken brings a rich, creamy texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Simple Steps: With its straightforward preparation, even novice cooks can create a stunning meal that impresses everyone at the table. Customizable Spice Level: Adapt the heat to your liking, making it family-friendly for various palates. Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy it the next day as the flavors deepen, or try it with our Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies as a delicious alternative! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy nights in or entertaining.

Butter Chicken Ingredients

• To create this mouthwatering Butter Chicken, you’ll need a few key ingredients that meld together for maximum flavor.

For the Chicken

Chicken – Use boneless thighs for tenderness; swap with turkey or paneer for a vegetarian option.
Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances flavors and seasoning—feel free to adjust to your taste.
Greek Yogurt (½ cup) – Acts as a marinade for tenderness and creaminess; can replace with regular yogurt.

For the Sauce

Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can work as a substitute.
Sweet Paprika (1 tsp) – Provides mild sweetness and flavor.
Curry Powder (1 tsp + optional extra) – The backbone of the sauce; adjust based on your spice preference.
Vegetable Oil (3 tbsp) – Ideal for cooking chicken; olive or coconut oil can be used.
Butter (3 tbsp) – Adds richness to the sauce, making it luscious.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – A fresh flavor enhancer; adjust quantity to your liking.
Onion (1, diced) – Builds the flavor base; use yellow or white onions for best results.
Tomato Sauce (1 cup) – Forms the sauce base; crushed tomatoes can offer a different texture.
Sugar (1 tsp) – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes; optional if you desire sweetness.
Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Delivers mild heat and works well with the spices.
Cayenne Pepper (½ tsp, optional) – Adds heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates that rich and creamy texture sought after in butter chicken; swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Garam Masala (1 tsp) – Contributes warm spices essential to Indian cuisine.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Adds color and freshness to the final dish.

Dive into this delicious Butter Chicken recipe and savor the comfort in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Ensure the chicken is fully coated for maximum flavor. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the spices to penetrate and tenderize the meat.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 7–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, along with 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 diced onion. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step builds the flavor base for your delicious butter chicken.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add 1 cup of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to incorporate. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5–7 minutes, thickening slightly and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The vibrant colors will create a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 5: Add Cream and Spices
Reduce the heat to low and mix in 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 1 teaspoon of garam masala and any extra curry powder you prefer. Stir until the cream is fully blended and the sauce turns a rich, creamy hue. Let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Finish Dish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently stir to coat it well in the luscious sauce. Allow the butter chicken to simmer on low for an additional 5–10 minutes, letting the chicken absorb all those incredible flavors. Keep an eye out for a bubbling sauce, signaling it’s ready to serve.

Step 7: Serve
Garnish your butter chicken with fresh parsley before serving. Pair it with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. Serve hot, and savor the delightful taste of homemade butter chicken that brings the magic of Indian cuisine to your dinner table.

How to Store and Freeze Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze butter chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Label it with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of cream if it’s too thick.

Serving: After reheating, serve the butter chicken hot with fresh naan or fluffy rice for a delightful meal experience once again!

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Nothing elevates a comforting recipe quite like the perfect accompaniments, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.

Warm Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan is the quintessential bread for soaking up every drop of that creamy sauce. A must-have!
Fluffy Basmati Rice: The aromatic rice offers a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of butter chicken, providing a satisfying base to every forkful.
Cucumber Raita: This cool, refreshing yogurt dip tones down the spices and adds a burst of freshness, enhancing your meal’s overall experience.
Spicy Chickpea Salad: Crunchy and zesty, this salad brings a delightful textural contrast, complementing the creaminess of the chicken beautifully.
Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender yet crisp green beans sautéed in garlic butter add a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
Chai-Infused Masala Tea: Enjoy a warm cup of this fragrant tea, which perfectly balances the spices in the butter chicken for a well-rounded meal.
Mango Lassi: Silky and sweet, this yogurt-based drink complements the spices while adding a creamy element that enhances the entire dining experience.
Chocolate Samosas: For a sweet ending, these little treats provide a fun and unexpected dessert, giving your dinner a memorable finish.

With these thoughtfully curated pairings, your homemade butter chicken dinner will surely impress everyone at the table!

Expert Tips for Butter Chicken

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for over 15 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness, resulting in an even more delicious butter chicken.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small to ensure it browns nicely, preventing steaming instead of searing.
Simmer for Creaminess: For a richer sauce, simmer the combined ingredients longer. This allows flavors to meld and creates that velvety texture everyone loves.
Adjust Spice Levels: Don’t hesitate to tweak the cayenne pepper to suit you and your family’s heat preference, making your butter chicken family-friendly for everyone.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh garlic and a good brand of curry powder; they significantly enhance the overall flavor of your butter chicken.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy this comforting dish again soon!

Make Ahead Options

These Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken with spices and yogurt up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and ensuring tender meat. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just store the marinated chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers for best quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken in a skillet and add it to the sauce, letting it simmer until heated through. The result? A comforting meal that tastes just as delicious and comes together in no time!

Butter Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on traditional butter chicken, adding your personal touch to this family favorite!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with boneless turkey or paneer for a delicious vegetarian alternative that’s equally satisfying.
Spice it Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking—add more for heat or use milder spices like smoked paprika for a gentler flavor.
Coconut Cream: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, infusing a hint of tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with spices.
Extra Veggies: Stir in sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and color, making your meal even more wholesome and visually appealing.
Herb Infusion: Elevate taste by adding fresh cilantro or mint as a garnish—these herbs brighten the dish and add a refreshing twist.
Tomato Alternatives: Use crushed tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a chunkier texture that brings more depth to the sauce.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of honey in the sauce for a sweet and tangy dimension that enhances flavors.
Quick and Easy: Check out our Crockpot Butter Chicken for a convenient way to enjoy this classic without spending hours in the kitchen.

These variations are your canvas—get creative and make this butter chicken uniquely yours!

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for butter chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using boneless chicken thighs. They stay juicy during cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless turkey works well too. For a vegetarian alternative, paneer or tofu can be delightful substitutions that absorb the flavors beautifully.

How should I store leftover butter chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing, as residual heat can create condensation and affect the texture. To enjoy the dish at its best, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop.

Can I freeze butter chicken?
Very! Butter chicken freezes wonderfully. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into containers or freezer bags. Label with the date for easy tracking.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen butter chicken?
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen butter chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce seems too thick, adding a splash of cream can help restore its creamy consistency!

Can I adjust the spice levels for my family’s preferences?
Absolutely! The beauty of this butter chicken recipe lies in its flexibility. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the cayenne pepper or use even less curry powder. Conversely, if you enjoy some heat, feel free to add additional cayenne or even some diced chilies. Tailoring it to your family’s taste will make it a hit!

Is this butter chicken recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, very! This recipe can easily accommodate various dietary considerations. For a dairy-free option, simply substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, you can use low-fat yogurt to marinate the chicken and achieve a lighter dish. Always check the spice labels if you or your guests have allergies!