Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that is surprisingly simple to make at home. This restaurant-quality recipe features tender chicken cooked in a velvety tomato-based sauce infused with warm spices, making it the perfect comfort food. Serve it with warm naan and fluffy rice for a truly satisfying meal.

With just a few staple ingredients and a bit of time, you can recreate this beloved Indian dish in your own kitchen. Whether you are preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this butter chicken recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Rich and Flavorful – A creamy tomato-based sauce with perfectly spiced chicken.
Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap ingredients, or make it dairy-free.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – Enjoy an authentic, homemade version without needing takeout.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken & Marinade:

1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons butter (divided)
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon curry powder
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

To Serve:

Naan bread
Steamed rice

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt.
- Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the oil in the pan.
Prepare the Sauce Base:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet.
- Scrape up any browned bits at the bottom, adding a splash of water if necessary.
- Add the minced garlic and diced onion, along with a pinch of salt.
- Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Build the Sauce:
- Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce turns a smooth orange color.
Season and Simmer:
- Add cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Finish with Butter:
- Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for a silky, creamy finish.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Marinate Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with a plant-based alternative.
Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a teaspoon of chili powder for extra heat.
Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken with shrimp, tofu, or paneer for a different take on the dish.
Lower-Calorie Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Warm the butter chicken on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or cream to loosen it.

Freezing:

Butter chicken freezes well for up to 2 months.
Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Coconut cream, half-and-half, or cashew cream are great alternatives.

Is butter chicken supposed to be spicy?

Traditionally, it is mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal.

What can I serve with butter chicken besides rice and naan?

It pairs well with roti, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Can I make butter chicken in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the chicken separately, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 4-6 hours.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, but you may need to blend them for a smoother texture.

How do I make this dish more authentic?

Using ghee instead of butter and adding a bit of fenugreek powder can bring out traditional flavors.

What is the best way to reheat butter chicken without losing its creamy texture?

Reheat on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to restore its smooth consistency.

Conclusion

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe brings rich flavors, creamy textures, and a restaurant-quality experience to your kitchen. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Serve it with warm naan and fragrant rice for the perfect comfort meal.

Try it today and enjoy the irresistible flavors of homemade butter chicken!