Description

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and bursting with warm spices. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that feels indulgent yet comes together fast perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. Serve with rice or naan for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons minced ginger
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
2 tablespoons butter (or ghee)
1 cup tomato puree
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
Salt, to taste
Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

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Instructions

In a bowl, mix chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and cook marinated chicken until golden. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add a bit more butter and pour in tomato puree. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add garam masala and stir well. Return chicken to the pan and simmer in the sauce for 5–7 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in cream. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes until the sauce is silky and chicken is cooked through.
Serve hot with rice, naan, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk and oil instead of cream and butter. Don’t skip the marinade it adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy. The sauce can be made ahead and frozen for future meals.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl with rice
Calories: 530
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 640mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 140mg