If you’re craving a rich, comforting, and utterly delicious dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is just what you need. Tender chicken thighs marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt then simmered in a luscious tomato and cream sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors. It’s a classic that’s beloved worldwide, yet surprisingly simple to make at home, letting you enjoy restaurant-worthy tastes without leaving your kitchen. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to dinner for cozy nights and special gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component builds layers of flavor, texture, and color—from the tangy yogurt marinade to the creamy tomato sauce, every ingredient plays a starring role in delivering that signature buttery richness and vibrant taste.
- 500 g boneless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing all the spices and sauce.
- 1 cup plain yogurt: Provides a gentle tang and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness to balance the richness of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor foundational to Indian cooking.
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder: Gives the right hint of heat without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder: Infuses a warm earthiness and that inviting golden color.
- 1 teaspoon garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that defines the dish’s depth.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavor components beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil: For sautéing ingredients to develop rich flavors.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Contributes sweetness and body to the sauce when softened.
- 1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes: Creates a tangy, thick base for the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and rounds out the spices for comfort-level indulgence.
- 2 tablespoons butter: The star that gives the dish its characteristic silky, buttery finish.
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish: Brings a fresh, herbal pop at the end.
How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt in a bowl. This marinade isn’t just about coating the chicken; it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with layers of spice that become richer with time. Toss the chicken thighs into this mixture, making sure every piece is generously covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, or even better, overnight. This patience will truly pay off in flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet heated over medium heat, pour in the cooking oil and add the finely chopped onions. Stir them gently until they soften and turn a beautiful, light golden brown. This step is crucial as the caramelized onions add a natural sweetness and depth to the sauce, creating the perfect base for your homemade butter chicken recipe.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces along with the marinade into the skillet. Cooking the chicken like this allows it to brown beautifully, locking in juices and flavor. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the edges develop a slight char—you want this to ensure the final dish has those wonderful layers of taste.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This phase lets the spices mingle with the tomatoes, creating a thick, rich sauce that envelops each piece of chicken. Allow the mixture to cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces slightly and the aromas fill your kitchen.
Step 5: Cream and Butter Finish
Reduce your heat to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream followed by the butter. This transforms the sauce into a heavenly, creamy delight with that signature buttery smoothness that makes butter chicken such a beloved dish. Let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes, tasting and adjusting the salt if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the top to add a burst of color and a fresh herbal contrast to the richness. Now your Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to take center stage at your dining table!
How to Serve Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh coriander leaves are the classic garnish, adding brightness and a fresh aroma that complements the creamy sauce. You can also add a drizzle of extra cream or a sprinkle of garam masala for an elegant touch before serving.
Side Dishes
Traditional pairings like warm naan bread or steamed basmati rice are perfect for soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. For a veggie boost, try a side of sautéed greens or a cucumber raita to cool off the palate. These sides balance the richness and make the meal feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl: serve your butter chicken in mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic feel or layer it over roasted cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Alternatively, turn the leftovers into a butter chicken pizza or wrap to impress family and friends with creative spins on this classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen even further overnight.
Freezing
If you want to save this homemade butter chicken recipe for later, freezing is a great option. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing it tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, slowly warm the butter chicken in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the cream from separating. You can add a splash of water or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Microwave reheating works too, but gentle stovetop warming preserves texture best.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more tenderness and juiciness, chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be careful not to overcook, as breast meat can dry out faster.
How spicy is this butter chicken recipe?
This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe has a mild to medium heat profile thanks to the red chili powder. You can adjust the chili quantity according to your spice preference for a milder or spicier dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure to check your spice blends and any store-bought products to confirm they don’t contain hidden gluten.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely! Preparing the marinade in advance saves time on the day you’re cooking. Just mix it up and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to marinate the chicken.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Slow reheating on the stove over low heat helps maintain the dish’s creamy texture and flavor, preventing the sauce from curdling and the chicken from drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making this Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe from scratch—it’s a beautiful blend of spices, creaminess, and homemade love that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just diving into Indian flavors, this recipe welcomes you with open arms and promises a delicious meal that everyone will rave about. Give it a try and enjoy every rich, comforting bite!
Print
Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 40m
- Total Time: 0h 55m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This Homemade Butter Chicken recipe is a rich and creamy Indian classic featuring tender marinated chicken thighs cooked in a spiced tomato and cream sauce. Perfectly balanced with aromatic spices, it delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with basmati rice or naan bread.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 500 g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt, to taste
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coating them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to enhance the flavor penetration.
- Sauté Onions: Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes, to develop sweetness and depth.
- Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade to the pan. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, approximately 8-10 minutes, ensuring it’s sealed and flavorful.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cook for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors and thicken the sauce.
- Incorporate Cream and Butter: Lower the heat to low. Gradually stir in the heavy cream and butter, mixing until the sauce becomes creamy and fully combined, giving richness and smoothness.
- Final Simmer and Season: Let the sauce simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding salt if necessary to balance flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with your choice of basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight greatly enhances the depth of flavor and tenderness.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red chili powder according to taste.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt, but this will slightly alter the flavor and texture.
- Use fresh ginger-garlic paste for the best aroma and taste.
- Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
