If you’ve ever craved a comforting dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with warm spices, hausgemachtes butter chicken is the perfect choice. This classic Indian-inspired dish combines tender chicken in a luscious tomato-butter sauce that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create an authentic butter chicken experience at home, with simple ingredients and steps that make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both einfach & würzig — simple and spicy — right from your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy sauce with perfectly balanced spices
- Quick and easy to prepare in under an hour
- Tender, juicy chicken bites infused with flavor
- Great for family dinners or entertaining guests
- Pairs beautifully with rice or naan bread
Ingredients
Gather these fresh and pantry staples to make your hausgemachtes butter chicken delightful and authentic.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 ½ cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup water or chicken broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
How to Make Hausgemachtes Butter Chicken – Einfach & würzig
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon salt, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge for best flavor.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden and soft, about 8 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
- Meanwhile, remove chicken from marinade and add to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and water or broth. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to become silky smooth.
- Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread.
Tips for the Best Results
- Marinate the chicken overnight to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier results than breasts.
- Simmer the sauce low and slow for a richer, creamier texture.
- Fresh ginger and garlic really elevate the depth of flavor—don’t skip them.
- Adjust the chili powder to control the spice level to your preference.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Add a splash of water or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender in this recipe. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is moderate due to the chili powder, but it can easily be adjusted to be milder or hotter depending on your taste by changing the amount of chili powder used.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based oil or vegan butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a similar richness.
What should I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even steamed vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce.
