Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A steaming plate of homemade Indian butter chicken garnished with fresh cilantro, served with fluffy basmati rice and naan bread.

Homemade Indian Butter Chicken: Easy & Flavorful Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Discover the rich and creamy flavor of Homemade Indian Butter Chicken, a simple and authentic recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This flavorful dish features tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and cream sauce, delivering restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen. Ideal for fans of Indian cuisine and comfort food lovers seeking an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust for heat preference)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by marinating the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of turmeric. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent. Then, stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
  4. Pour in the tomato puree and sprinkle the garam masala, cumin, chili powder, and remaining turmeric. Stir well and let simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and remaining butter. Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt along with spices for 30 minutes prior to cooking.
  • You can substitute coconut milk for dairy cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder according to taste.
  • Use fresh cilantro for authentic garnish and flavor enhancement.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg