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Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

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4.4 from 142 reviews

This Delicious Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe features tender, marinated chicken thighs cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal, it’s quick to prep and uses simple ingredients to deliver restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 0.5 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tbsp Greek yogurt

Cooking

  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt, adjust to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, combine the chicken with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours to enhance flavor and tenderness.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil (or some of the divided butter) in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is browned and slightly charred. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Cook Onions and Garlic: Using the same pan, melt the remaining butter. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until soft, translucent, and slightly caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Simmer Sauce: Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and reduce heat to low. Let the sauce cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors melded.
  5. Finish and Combine: Return the seared chicken to the pan. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently until fully incorporated and the sauce turns pale orange. Simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes on low heat to cook the chicken thoroughly and meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  6. Serve: Serve the warm, aromatic Butter Chicken immediately alongside fluffy Basmati rice or warm naan bread for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • For best results, marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken to ensure even browning.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding chili powder or fresh chilies if desired.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with Basmati rice or naan bread.