Name: Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1 tbsp garam masala; 1 tbsp garlic paste; 1 tbsp ginger paste; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; Salt to taste; 1 tsp chili powder (optional); 1 tsp ground cumin

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Butter chicken is one of those dishes that turns dinner into an experience. In our home, it started as a “restaurant treat” we’d crave weekly. But the price and portion sizes? Not as satisfying. That’s when I decided to bring this dish into our own kitchen, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint.

Hi, I’m Saly. As a home cook who loves easy steps and big flavors, I promise this homemade butter chicken recipe is one that even a beginner can nail. It’s creamy, tangy, rich with Indian spices, and most importantly, it’s been devoured at our table more times than I can count.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy night in or a dish to impress, this easy version of murgh makhani (as it’s traditionally called) is your new go-to. If you’ve tried my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, you know I’m all about maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Let’s get cooking.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Better than takeout, every time
Once you try this from-scratch creamy chicken dish, there’s no going back. The sauce is packed with layers of spice, garlic, tomato, and butter, yet it’s not overwhelming. Each bite feels like comfort in a bowl, and the leftovers? Even better the next day.

Simple, everyday ingredients
You don’t need a specialty store or a dozen spice jars. Just a few pantry staples like tomato paste, cream, and a solid garam masala blend make this version taste restaurant-quality.

Perfect for meal prep
Make a batch, and you’ve got lunches or dinner ready to go. Pair it with naan or jasmine rice, and you’re set. It also freezes beautifully. Similar to how my Crack Chicken Casserole Recipe works wonders for busy weeks.

Crowd favorite
This dish is universally loved, even by picky eaters. It’s rich without being spicy, flavorful without being intimidating. I’ve served it at potlucks, dinner parties, and lazy Sundays. Always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need for this Homemade Butter Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to make butter chicken at home:

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless chicken thighs or breasts	1.5 lbs, cubed
Plain yogurt	1/2 cup (for marinade)
Garam masala	1 tbsp
Garlic & ginger paste	1 tbsp each
Tomato paste or puree	3 tbsp
Heavy cream	1 cup
Unsalted butter	2 tbsp
Salt, chili powder, cumin	To taste

You can even serve this over my Cheesy Chicken Tater Tot Casserole for an Indian-American mashup!

How to Make It

1. Marinate the chicken
In a large bowl, mix chicken pieces with yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, salt, and a pinch of chili powder. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deep flavor).
2. Cook the chicken
Sear the marinated chicken in a large skillet until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté garlic and ginger for a minute. Stir in tomato paste, cumin, and remaining garam masala. Let it simmer until the paste darkens slightly.
4. Simmer and finish
Pour in the cream. Stir until smooth. Add the cooked chicken and any juices. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.

Want to pair it with pasta? Try serving it over Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine; it’s fusion magic.

Tips and Variations

Use thighs for juicier results
Chicken thighs stay moist and tender even after simmering. Breasts work too, but keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
Make it dairy-free
Swap yogurt with coconut milk for marinade, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It still tastes incredible and rich.
Spice it up
Want it hotter? Add a diced chili or more cayenne during the sauce step. You’re in control of the heat.
Double the batch
This recipe freezes beautifully. Store it in portions and just reheat for quick, flavorful dinners.

Want another cozy recipe with spice and creaminess? Don’t miss my Spinach and Mushroom Chicken Bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes butter chicken different from tikka masala?

Butter chicken tends to be creamier and less spicy, with a buttery tomato base. Tikka masala usually leans spicier and tangier.

Can I make this in the slow cooker?

Yes! After marinating, add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Stir in cream near the end.

Is it freezer friendly?

Absolutely. Let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What should I serve with it?

It’s perfect with naan, jasmine rice, or over pasta. For a twist, try it inside a baked potato or on flatbread as a wrap.

Final Thoughts

Homemade butter chicken is more than just a meal; it’s comfort, culture, and convenience in one skillet. With just a few steps, you can recreate restaurant-level magic from your own kitchen. So grab those spices, warm up the skillet, and make this dish part of your regular dinner rotation. Trust me, your family will thank you.

For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!

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Homemade Butter Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe