Name: Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe for Comfort and Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Thighs (Skinless boneless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances all the flavors; sea salt yields a natural taste.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic provides a punchier flavor.); 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika (Infuses sweetness and color; swap in smoked paprika for an earthy twist.); 1 tablespoon Curry Powder (Brings warmth and complexity; garam masala can replace it for different spice notes.); 1 cup Greek Yogurt (Creamy base for marinating the chicken; dairy-free yogurt is great for lighter options.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Essential for sautéing; olive or coconut oil can introduce new flavors.); 3 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness to the sauce; vegan butter serves as a dairy-free substitute.); 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (Fresh flavor booster; increase for a stronger taste.); 1 medium Onion (Provides sweetness; substitute with shallots for milder flavor.); 1 cup Tomato Sauce (Tangy base for the sauce; passata or crushed tomatoes work well too.); 1 teaspoon Sugar (Balances acidity; try honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds warmth; cracked pepper can provide extra bite.); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Ensures a rich texture; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.); 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional heat boost; adjust to taste or omit for milder palates.); 1 teaspoon Garam Masala (Essential for authentic flavor; adds aromatic spices.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Adds freshness; cilantro offers an herbaceous alternative.); 4 Naan Bread (A traditional accompaniment to soak up the sauce.); 2 cups Steamed Rice (The perfect complement to the rich dish, adding a comforting base.)

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The first time I made Butter Chicken, I was astonished at how effortless this rich, creamy dish came together in my own kitchen. With a perfect balance of spices and a velvety sauce, this recipe is not just a crowd-pleaser; it’s the quintessential comfort food that can transform a weeknight dinner into a special occasion. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or warm naan, ensuring an indulgent experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it offers flexibility—feel free to adjust the spice level or swap in gluten-free ingredients like coconut cream for a lighter twist. Ready to fall in love with your new favorite recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why is Butter Chicken So Irresistible?

Comforting, Creamy Goodness: Enjoy the velvety texture of this rich sauce that hugs tender chicken pieces, making every bite a delight.
Customizable Heat: Tailor the spice level to your liking—add more cayenne for heat or keep it mild for family-friendly dining.
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal time without sacrificing flavor, perfect for whipping up on busy weeknights.
Versatile Pairing: Serve with warm naan or fluffy rice for a complete meal that pleases everyone at the table—especially if you’re also considering a side of Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.
Real Crowd-Pleaser: Bring it to gatherings or potlucks, and watch it disappear as everyone gathers for seconds! Don’t forget to explore ways to consolidate your cooking time with dishes like Lemon Chicken Pasta.

Butter Chicken Ingredients

Unlock the luxurious flavors of homemade Butter Chicken with these simple, hearty ingredients!

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful; skinless boneless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors; sea salt yields a natural taste.

For the Marinade

Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic provides a punchier flavor.
Sweet Paprika – Infuses sweetness and color; swap in smoked paprika for an earthy twist.
Curry Powder – Brings warmth and complexity; garam masala can replace it for different spice notes.
Greek Yogurt – Creamy base for marinating the chicken; dairy-free yogurt is great for lighter options.

For the Sauce

Vegetable Oil – Essential for sautéing; olive or coconut oil can introduce new flavors.
Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; vegan butter serves as a dairy-free substitute.
Garlic Cloves – Fresh flavor booster; increase the quantity for a stronger garlic taste.
Onion – Provides sweetness and body; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
Tomato Sauce – Tangy base for the sauce; passata or crushed tomatoes work well too.
Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes; try honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners.
Black Pepper – Adds warmth; cracked pepper can provide an extra bite.
Heavy Cream – Ensures a rich, creamy texture; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.
Cayenne Pepper – Optional heat boost; adjust to taste or omit for milder palates.
Garam Masala – Essential for authentic flavor; adds aromatic spices.

For Garnish & Serving

Fresh Parsley – Adds a touch of freshness; cilantro offers an herbaceous alternative.
Naan Bread – A traditional accompaniment to soak up the sauce.
Steamed Rice – The perfect complement to the rich dish, adding a comforting base to your meal.

With these Butter Chicken ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a dish that is not only perfect for family dinners but can easily impress guests as well!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Use your hands to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning mixture. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your Butter Chicken sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, mixing thoroughly. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, which will help develop the flavors. After simmering, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce, then pour in ½ cup of heavy cream to add richness and creaminess to your Butter Chicken.

Step 5: Season and Simmer
Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of curry powder, and freshly cracked black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then reduce the heat to low. Let the Butter Chicken simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Butter
For extra silkiness, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of cold butter until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. This final touch enriches the texture of your Butter Chicken, making it irresistibly creamy.

Step 7: Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Butter Chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with warm naan and a side of fluffy steamed rice, ensuring everyone enjoys the inviting, aromatic flavors of this comforting dish.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Butter Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to save you time! You can marinate the chicken (with the yogurt, spices, and seasonings) up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can sauté the aromatics and build the base of the sauce up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to cool the mixture completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to finish the Butter Chicken, simply reheat the sauce, add the marinated chicken and cream, simmer until heated through, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to enjoy its creamy goodness again.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens, stirring gently over low heat until warmed through.

Tips for the Best Butter Chicken

Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor absorption. It creates a juicier outcome!
Avoid Burning Garlic: Keep the heat moderate when sautéing garlic; burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your Butter Chicken.
Texture Check: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter, gluten-free Butter Chicken. Just ensure to stir well for creaminess!
Adjust Spice Levels: Taste the sauce as you go; adding cayenne pepper gradually allows you to control the heat to suit you and your family.
Thinner Sauce Tip: If your sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to stir in a splash of water or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Leftover Magic: Reheating your Butter Chicken can enhance the flavors, but gently warm it over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the creamy depths of Butter Chicken.

Fluffy Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy grains absorb the rich sauce, making each bite a comforting treasure.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft and doughy, naan is perfect for scooping up the sauce, enhancing every moment of enjoyment.
Cucumber Raita: This refreshing yogurt side cools down the spices, providing a delicious contrast to the savory warmth of Butter Chicken.
Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a vibrant crunch, balancing the creaminess of the dish delightfully.
Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, this chutney brings a burst of flavor that complements the spices, inviting you to savor every morsel.
Roasted Cauliflower: Charred and seasoned with spices, this side adds an earthy, satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the buttery sauce.
Chili Lime Corn Salad: Fresh corn mixed with a zesty dressing adds sweetness and a pop of color, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Coriander Lemon Rice: Aromatic and refreshing, this rice offers a fragrant base that envelops the richness of the Butter Chicken effortlessly.
Peach Iced Tea: A sweet, refreshing beverage that chills your palate, enhancing the flavors of your meal with a fruity undertone.
Cardamom Rice Pudding: To satisfy your sweet tooth, serve this creamy dessert with hints of cardamom for a delightful ending to your meal.

Butter Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this Butter Chicken recipe and make it your own. Let your taste buds guide you as you boil or sauté, adjusting flavors and textures to your delight!

Lean Protein: Swap Chicken Thighs for skinless boneless chicken breasts for a lighter meal. This keeps the dish deliciously satisfying while cutting back on fat.
Creamy Options: Use Coconut Cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan twist or to lighten things up. It provides a luscious flavor while keeping the dish dairy-free.
Extra Spice: Enhance heat by bumping up the Cayenne Pepper to suit your spice tolerance. Embrace that fiery flavor for an added kick that warms your soul!
Flavorful Yogurt: Replace Greek Yogurt with Dairy-Free Yogurt for a lighter, vegan-friendly option while still achieving that creamy texture that makes every bite blissful.
Herbal Twist: Change up the garnish using Cilantro instead of parsley. This bright, herbaceous flavor can elevate the dish beautifully, offering a fresh contrast to the rich sauce!
Different Aromatics: Add Shallots in place of the onion for a subtler sweetness. This could deepen the flavor profile and bring a new twist to your Butter Chicken.
Smoky Flavor: Substitute Sweet Paprika with Smoked Paprika for an earthy aroma and an interesting flavor profile. It’s a simple change that brings complexity to the dish.
Natural Sweetness: Swap Sugar for Honey or Maple Syrup when looking for a natural sweetener to tame the acidity. It’s a delicious way to balance flavors in your sauce.

Whether you decide to dive into a delicious side of Chicken and Broccoli Sizzling or want to enjoy it with some Hot Honey Chicken, there’s so much you can do with Butter Chicken to make it uniquely yours!

Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken?
Choosing chicken thighs for Butter Chicken is ideal due to their juiciness and flavor. Look for cuts with a vibrant pink color and minimal visible dark spots. If you prefer a leaner option, skinless, boneless chicken breasts work well too!

How long can I store Butter Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Butter Chicken for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Ensure you label it, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy it like it was freshly made!

What if my Butter Chicken sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is too thick, no worries! Simply add a splash of water or cream and stir gently over low heat. This will help achieve the desired consistency without sacrificing flavor. Aim for a smooth, velvety texture that coats the chicken beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations for Butter Chicken?
Yes! If you have dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make. Use dairy-free yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a lighter option or coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream to create a gluten-free version. Always be mindful of personal allergies and adapt the ingredients as necessary.

Can my pets share this meal?
While Butter Chicken may smell delicious to your furry friends, it’s best to avoid sharing it. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to pets. If you want to treat them, consider preparing simple, plain cooked chicken without seasoning instead!

Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs