Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Name: Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine or penne; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups baby spinach (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish; Optional: sun-dried tomatoes, beef, red pepper flakes

Jump to Recipe

If there’s one dish that truly delivers on comfort, richness, and depth of flavor, it’s the homemade butter chicken recipe. This classic North Indian chicken curry is known for its velvety, creamy tomato butter chicken sauce that clings to tender, yogurt-marinated chicken. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with the aroma of warming spices, making you eager to gather around the table. Perfect for a cozy lunch, this easy homemade butter chicken recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or pillowy naan. If you’re a fan of flavor-packed rice and chicken dishes like Spanish Paella, you’ll appreciate how this curry delivers the same harmony of textures and taste in a completely different style. And for spice lovers, it shares the same indulgent creaminess as bold and creamy chicken dishes like Bang Bang Chicken.

Ingredients

Main Protein

1 kg skinless boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)

Marinade Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste

Sauce Base

3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons neutral oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
400 g tomato puree
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup heavy cream

Garnish / Serve with

Fresh cilantro leaves
Naan bread
Steamed basmati rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken pieces, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken until golden brown on all sides. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Add garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne; toast for 30 seconds.

4. Build the Sauce
Pour in tomato puree and sugar. Stir well, letting the mixture simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Season & Simmer
Return chicken to the skillet, mixing into the sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finish with Cream
Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 5 more minutes until the sauce reaches a velvety consistency.

Creamy homemade butter chicken with basmati rice and garlic naan served in a bowl with a white pumpkin background

7. Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with cilantro and serve with naan, basmati rice, or even alongside easy chicken meals for weeknights for variety.

Substitutions

Protein: Chicken breast, paneer, or tofu.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Spice Adjustments: Reduce chili for a mild flavor or increase for more heat.

Equipment Needed

Large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
Sharp knife & cutting board
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Store for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore texture.

Top Tips

Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor.
Toast spices in butter to release essential oils.
Finish with cold butter for a silky texture.
Use chicken thighs for juicier results.

FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

1. What makes butter chicken creamy?

The combination of heavy cream and butter stirred into the tomato-based sauce creates the signature velvety texture.

2. Is butter chicken spicy or mild?

It can be both. Traditionally, it’s mild with a balance of sweet and savory spices, but you can increase chili powder for more heat.

3. Can I make butter chicken without dairy?

Yes, swap heavy cream for coconut cream and butter for a plant-based alternative.

4. What to serve with butter chicken?

Classic pairings include naan and basmati rice, but you can also serve it with salads like lighter chicken alternatives like this Caesar Salad.

If you enjoyed this authentic butter chicken recipe, you might also like:

flavor-packed rice and chicken dishes like Spanish Paella
bold and creamy chicken dishes like Bang Bang Chicken
saucy chicken recipes with rich flavor
easy chicken meals for weeknights

Dessert Pairings

Balance the spice with a sweet finish. Try mango kulfi, rice pudding, gulab jamun, or a rich chocolate mousse.

Food Safety Notes

Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Avoid cross-contamination by using separate boards for raw meat.
Refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Conclusion

Making traditional butter chicken at home is easier than it seems. With a few pantry spices, quality chicken, and a little patience, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without stepping outside. It’s a comforting, hearty choice for a midday break, and its versatility means you can adapt it to your preferences.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a student grabbing lunch on the go, or anyone hungry for something wholesome and delicious, this recipe fits the bill. Don’t forget to leave a comment or tag us with your cooking success! Follow Daily Tasty Recipe on Pinterest and instagram for more inspiration.