Easy Homemade Butter Chicken – Simple & Sensational Dinner

The night I first made this dish, it was pouring outside. Cozy, rainy-day cooking called for something warm, rich, and comforting. Easy homemade butter chicken answered that craving. Creamy, bold, and mildly spiced, it came together in one skillet and brought the whole kitchen to life. Best part? It’s ready in under an hour.

Easy Homemade Butter Chicken – A Flavorful Weeknight Favorite

This easy homemade butter chicken is a go-to for busy weeknights. It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and full of bold tomato flavor. Plus, you can whip it up in just 45 minutes using one pan. It’s kid-friendly, cozy, and ideal with naan or a bowl of fluffy rice.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving comfort food, this simple butter chicken delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• ½ tsp curry powder
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 tbsp butter (divided)
• 6 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp curry powder (additional)

Optional Garnishes & Sides:

• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Steamed rice or warm naan bread

How to Make Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, toss chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, go up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2 – Cook the Chicken

Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside on a plate.

Step 3 – Sauté the Garlic and Onion

In the same pan, reduce heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add garlic and onion with a pinch of salt. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4 – Build the Sauce

Pour in tomato sauce and sugar. Stir and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5 – Combine, Simmer, and Season

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and watch the sauce turn a beautiful orange color. Add black pepper, remaining curry powder, garam masala, and cayenne if using. Simmer on low for 10 minutes so the flavors can really come together.

Step 6 – Finish with Butter and Serve

Turn off the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of cold butter for a silky finish. Top with chopped parsley if you like. Serve hot with rice or naan for a full, satisfying meal.

Ingredient Swaps & Dietary Substitutions

• Chicken thighs: Try chicken breast, turkey, or tofu
• Greek yogurt: Swap with sour cream or coconut yogurt
• Butter: Use ghee, olive oil, or vegan butter
• Heavy cream: Try coconut cream or cashew cream
• Garlic/onion: Jarred or powdered versions work in a pinch
• Tomato sauce: Substitute with diluted tomato paste or fresh purée
• Sugar: Maple syrup or honey add subtle sweetness

Equipment Needed

You’ll only need three basics:

• A sharp knife
• A cutting board
• A large, sturdy skillet

Storage & Reheating Tips

This butter chicken stores well and tastes even better the next day.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce

Top Tips for the Best Butter Chicken

• Marinate longer (up to 4 hours) for more depth
• Toast your spices in oil for bigger flavor
• Always finish with cold butter for that smooth, glossy finish

Frequently Asked Questions

More Such Recipes You’ll Love

If you like this creamy Indian curry dish with a rich tomato base, try our butter chicken recipe here.
Or go for a quick weeknight dinner with chicken and bold spices.
You might also enjoy tender oven-baked chicken with flavorful seasoning or this savory skillet chicken with a cheesy twist.

Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe Card

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Final Thoughts

This easy homemade butter chicken brings restaurant flavor into your own kitchen with simple ingredients and no fuss. It’s creamy, rich, and soul-warming. Let me know in the comments how it turned out or what you paired it with. And don’t forget to follow along on Pinterest or Facebook for more comforting meals from my kitchen to yours.