Homemade Creamy Butter Chicken

This butter chicken recipe is a creamy and comforting meal that works perfectly for family dinners or casual gatherings. It balances rich spices with smooth tomato and cream sauce that pairs wonderfully with naan bread or steamed rice.

I often made this on busy weeknights when I wanted something cozy but still impressive. It quickly became a favorite for my whole family because it tastes much more complex than the simple steps suggest.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: provide tender juicy meat ideal for absorbing the marinade and sauce
• Salt and garlic powder: build savory flavor in the chicken base
• Sweet paprika and curry powder: add warmth and authentic Indian-inspired taste
• Greek yogurt: helps tenderize and lightly acidify the chicken for better texture
• Vegetable oil: is great for high heat browning without imparting flavor
• Butter: enriches the sauce and adds creamy depth
• Fresh garlic and onion: develop the aromatic backbone of the dish
• Tomato sauce: creates tang and color, choose a quality brand with no additives for best flavor
• Sugar: balances acidity from the tomato to round out the sauce
• Black pepper: brings gentle heat
• Heavy cream: produces a luscious smooth sauce that helps marry the spices
• Cayenne pepper: can be added to taste for a spicy kick
• Garam masala: introduced at the end layers on complex Indian flavor notes
• Fresh parsley for garnish: adds a touch of color and freshness

Instructions

Build The Marinade:

In a medium bowl combine cut chicken thighs with salt garlic powder sweet paprika curry powder and Greek yogurt. Toss well to coat every piece. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes so flavors sink in and the yogurt tenderizes the meat.

Brown The Chicken:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces without crowding and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until golden on the outside and cooked through. Stir occasionally for even browning. Remove chicken and set aside while keeping the pan residue.

Create The Flavor Base:

Turn heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon butter in the skillet. Use a spoon to scrape up browned bits for flavor. Add minced garlic and diced onion with a pinch of salt. Cook gently until onions are translucent and fragrant about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a deeply savory foundation.

Develop The Sauce:

Pour in tomato sauce and sprinkle sugar. Simmer this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes to marry flavors. Return chicken to the pan then pour in heavy cream. Stir until the sauce transforms into a smooth orange color signaling those flavors have combined beautifully.

Finish With Spices:

Add cayenne pepper if you want heat then garam masala curry powder and black pepper. Let the entire sauce gently simmer on low for 10 minutes to deepen and meld the flavors perfectly. Taste and adjust salt or spice levels if desired.

Add The Final Butter Touch:

Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons cold butter letting it melt slowly into the sauce to create a luxurious silky finish. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if you want a fresh pop.

Serve With Warm Sides:

Dish out the butter chicken alongside warm naan or fluffy steamed rice. This creamy dish clings perfectly to bread and rice making every bite utterly satisfying.

I love returning to this recipe when I want a sense of comfort and warmth. It reminds me of cozy evenings spent cooking for friends where everyone gathered around the table, savoring every bite and talking late into the night.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully on the stovetop or microwave. The sauce thickens when cold so add a splash of water or cream when warming to loosen it up.

Ingredient Swaps

Chicken breasts can be used but expect them to be less juicy. You can substitute coconut milk for heavy cream to make a dairy-free version keeping the richness but changing the flavor slightly. For spice adjustments replace garam masala with a simple blend of ground cumin coriander and cardamom for a milder variation.

Serving Ideas

This dish shines with garlic naan or classic steamed basmati rice. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber salad brushed with lemon juice to cut through the richness. A dollop of cooling plain yogurt on the side helps balance the spices nicely.

This recipe offers a comforting delight that pairs perfectly with warm sides. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture in every bite.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Skinless, boneless chicken thighs are ideal as they stay juicy and tender during cooking.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, increase or omit cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.

→ Why marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices?

The yogurt tenderizes the meat while the spices infuse deep flavors before cooking.

→ What sides complement this creamy chicken dish?

It pairs wonderfully with warm naan bread or steamed rice to soak up the rich sauce.

→ How do I get a silky sauce texture?

Adding cold butter at the end and stirring it in slowly creates a smooth, rich finish.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after resting overnight as the flavors deepen. Rewarm gently.