There is something incredibly comforting about this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe that makes it an absolute favorite for any day of the week. This dish perfectly balances rich, creamy textures with a harmonious blend of spices that warm your soul. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting to explore Indian flavors, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating a restaurant-quality feast right in your own kitchen. The tender chicken thighs bathed in a luscious tomato-cream sauce make every bite irresistible and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share the meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe are wonderfully simple but each plays a vital role in building that iconic, flavorful profile. From fresh herbs to vibrant spices, every item contributes to the color, aroma, and depth of taste that defines this beloved dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Unsalted butter: Essential for richness and to sauté the aromatics, bringing everything together smoothly.
- Medium onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and forms the flavorful base of the sauce.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Offers a pungent bite that enhances the depth of flavor.
- Fresh ginger, grated: Brings a zesty warmth that brightens the overall dish.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that makes butter chicken so indulgent.
- Canned crushed tomatoes: Adds a fresh, tangy element balancing the richness perfectly.
- Ground cumin: Provides earthy warmth integral to the spice mix.
- Ground coriander: Introduces a slight citrusy note to elevate the flavor layers.
- Turmeric: Offers a vibrant golden color and subtle bitterness.
- Garam masala: A fragrant blend that gives the dish its authentic Indian character.
- Paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and enhances the visual appeal.
- Ground cinnamon: Delivers a sweet warmth that rounds out the spices.
- Chili powder: Adjust the amount to control the heat, giving the dish its signature kick.
- Salt: Essential to bring out and balance all the flavors perfectly.
- Sugar (optional): Balances tomato acidity for a smoother taste.
- Fresh cilantro: Provides a fresh, herby finish as a garnish.
- Lemon juice (optional): Adds brightness and a lively final touch.
How to Make Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium heat, then add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook them until they’re nicely browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in the juices so your chicken stays tender in the creamy sauce. Once done, set the chicken aside and keep that pan handy for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, melt another tablespoon of butter and toss in the finely chopped onions. Sauté until they turn soft and golden, about 4 minutes. Then add in the garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute. This fragrant base sets the stage for all the magic to come, releasing aromas that practically fill the kitchen.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Next, sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, cinnamon, and chili powder. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to toast the spices just enough to release their rich flavors without burning. This toasting step is what makes the flavor profile wonderfully deep and vibrant.
Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce
Now add the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes to the spice mixture, stirring well to blend everything. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the tomato base thickens slightly, creating that luscious foundation you want for the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Simmer
Pour in the heavy cream and stir it into the sauce thoroughly. Lower the heat and let it simmer for roughly 10 minutes until the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency. This creaminess is the heart of the dish, where all the bold spices are mellowed into something truly comforting.
Step 6: Return the Chicken to the Sauce
Bring back the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, coating them well in the cream and tomato sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes, which allows the chicken to absorb those luscious flavors and get beautifully tender.
Step 7: Final Touches
For a perfectly balanced dish, stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar if you want to smooth out any tomato acidity, and add a splash of lemon juice for an elevated brightness that lifts the entire dish. Finally, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top to add a lovely green freshness.
Step 8: Ready to Serve
Your Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to bring joy to your dinner table! Serve it hot alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up every last bit of that incredible sauce. It’s pure comfort food that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a must for garnish, not just for the pop of bright color but also for its fragrant herbal note that complements the creaminess perfectly. You might also add a drizzle of cream or a few thin slices of fresh chili to amp up the presentation and flavor contrast beautifully.
Side Dishes
Basmati rice is the classic sidekick to butter chicken, fluffy and fragrant to absorb the rich sauce. Alternatively, naan bread works like magic for scooping up every bite. For a lighter option, you can serve it with sautéed or steamed vegetables, such as green beans or spinach, to add texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving butter chicken in individual ramekins topped with a sprig of cilantro and a lemon wedge on the side. You could also layer it over a bed of colorful roasted vegetables or even serve it as a filling for warm wraps with crunchy onions for a delicious fusion twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors harmonize further, making leftovers a treat to look forward to. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor retention.
Freezing
This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe freezes well, so feel free to batch-cook and freeze portions for busy days. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat butter chicken gently on the stove over low to medium heat to maintain the creaminess of the sauce. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can cause the sauce to separate, spoiling the texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely, but keep in mind chicken thighs stay juicier and more tender during cooking. Breasts can dry out more easily, so watch the cooking time carefully and consider marinating them to add moisture.
How spicy is this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted easily by altering the chili powder amount. Feel free to add less if you prefer mild, or increase for more kick without overpowering the creamy balance.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with oil and use coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative instead of heavy cream. This will change the flavor slightly but keeps it creamy and delicious.
Is it necessary to use fresh ginger and garlic?
Fresh ginger and garlic provide the best aroma and flavor intensity, but if you’re in a pinch, good-quality powdered forms can work. Fresh ingredients just deliver that authentic warmth this dish is known for.
How long does the cooking process take?
The entire process, from start to finish, takes about 30 to 35 minutes including prep. It’s great for a weeknight dinner when you want something special but without fussing for hours.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that brings rich flavors, creamy texture, and a touch of spice into your kitchen, this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for you. It’s approachable, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal go-to whenever you want a comforting and satisfying meal. Dive in, enjoy the process, and savor every glorious bite with people you love.
Print
Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This easy homemade butter chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken thighs cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce enhanced with aromatic spices. Perfectly balanced with butter, cream, and a blend of Indian spices, this comforting dish comes together quickly on the stovetop and is ideal served with basmati rice or naan bread.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice level)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Sauce and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large pan or skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, cinnamon, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
- Combine tomatoes: Add the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes to the pan, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add cream and simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Return chicken to sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Finish with sugar and lemon: If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for extra brightness. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve: Serve your butter chicken with basmati rice, naan bread, or over a bed of sautéed vegetables.
Notes
- You can adjust the chili powder to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Using chicken thighs keeps the meat tender and juicy, but chicken breasts can be substituted if preferred.
- Adding sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes.
- Fresh cilantro garnish adds a bright, herbal note.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use oil instead of butter.
