Homemade Butter Chicken – Simple & Flavorful Indian Classic

Butter chicken is a beloved Indian dish known for its creamy texture and rich, aromatic spices. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make homemade butter chicken that is both einfach & würzig—simple and flavorful—using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

this Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this recipe will provide you with a deliciously saucy and tender chicken experience that’s sure to satisfy your craving for authentic Indian flavors. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy sauce that’s perfectly balanced between tangy and savory.
• Simple stovetop method that doesn’t require any special equipment.
• Uses common spices and ingredients you likely have at home.
• Tender chicken marinated overnight for maximum flavor and juiciness.
• Great for meal prepping and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and pantry staples to make your butter chicken flavorful and authentic.

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 4 hours marinating)
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 480 per serving

How to Make Hausgemachtes Butter Chicken – Einfach & würzig

1. In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Add chicken pieces and coat completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden and soft, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and remaining 1 teaspoon garam masala. Simmer the sauce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and deepens in color.
4. While the sauce simmers, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until just cooked through and lightly browned. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the tomato sauce and stir well. Pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to become creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan bread for an authentic experience.

Tips for the Best Results

• Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat.
• Cook onions low and slow to develop a sweet base for the sauce.
• Adjust chili powder according to your preferred heat level.
• For a smokier flavor, try lightly charring the chicken over a grill before adding it to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making reheated portions even tastier.

You can freeze butter chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to be less juicy and can dry out faster. If using breast meat, cook it gently and do not overcook to maintain tenderness.

Is butter chicken very spicy?

Butter chicken is typically mildly spiced and creamy. You can adjust the chili powder and garam masala to increase or decrease the heat according to your preference.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will vary slightly from the traditional recipe.

What should I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs perfectly with basmati rice, naan bread, or even roasted vegetables. These sides help soak up the delicious sauce and complete the meal.