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A vibrant bowl of butter chicken featuring tender chunks of chicken coated in a rich, orange-colored sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro and served alongside steamed basmati rice and naan bread. The dish is presented on a rustic wooden table with a hint of cream and spices visible in the sauce.

Homemade Butter Chicken: Easy Indian Dinner Favorite

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Discover the rich and creamy flavors of Homemade Butter Chicken, a popular Indian dinner favorite. This easy recipe features tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, making it perfect for a satisfying homemade meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this butter chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary rotation.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger paste
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup tomato puree or canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Start by marinating the chicken with a little salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Then, add garlic and ginger paste, cooking until fragrant—about 2 minutes.
  3. Add cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder to the sautéed aromatics. Stir well to coat the onions and release the spices’ aroma, enhancing the flavor of your simple chicken curry.
  4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. The spices will coat the chicken nicely, creating deep flavor profiles for this homemade butter chicken.
  5. Pour in the tomato puree and stir to combine. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender. stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a luscious, creamy consistency. Adjust salt to taste.
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot. Pair with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete Indian dinner experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for a more authentic flavor.
  • You can substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Marinate chicken in yogurt and spices overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Adjust chili powder to match your spice preference.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 510 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
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