Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: EMMA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Right after the first spoonful of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, youโ€™ll understand why this dish has earned its place in so many kitchens. Tender yogurt-marinated chicken simmers in a velvety, spice-kissed tomato cream sauce that feels indulgent, comforting, and full of warmth.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 (24 oz) jar tomato passata
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, and salt
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes
  3. Heat oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large pot over medium-high heat
  4. Sear chicken in a single layer until lightly golden, then remove and set aside
  5. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining butter
  6. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent
  7. Stir in ginger and garlic and cook until fragrant
  8. Add cumin, coriander, and garam masala and toast briefly
  9. Pour in tomato passata and simmer for 10 minutes
  10. Return chicken to the pot and simmer on low until fully cooked
  11. Turn off heat and stir in heavy cream and optional sugar
  12. Taste, adjust salt, garnish with cilantro, and serve warm


Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze up to 2 months for best texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream if needed.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 165mg