Butter Chicken
A quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe that is rich, creamy, and packed with spices, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks Juicy and tender, chicken thighs bring wonderful flavor to this dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing all the other flavors in this scrumptious sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For a boost of garlicky goodness that melds beautifully with the spices.
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder Just a hint to begin layering those beautiful flavors!
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt Helps tenderize the chicken, giving it that succulent texture.
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil Perfect for sautéing and keeping things nice and light.
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided) Because butter makes everything better! It’ll enrich the sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic (minced) Fresh garlic adds incredible depth and aroma to the sauce.
- 1 medium onion (diced) A sweet, savory base to support all the tasty flavors.
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce The foundation of our luscious sauce—tomato-y goodness!
- 1 teaspoon sugar Helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) Always taste and adjust for that perfect seasoning!
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Adds just the right amount of warmth to the mix.
- 2 cups heavy cream This is what makes the sauce rich and luxurious.
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) If you like a little kick, this is your secret weapon!
- 1 teaspoon garam masala A fragrant blend of spices that rounds out the dish beautifully.
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder Just a touch more for added richness!
- 0.25 cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish) Brightens the plate and adds a fresh finish.
Serving Suggestions
- to taste Naan bread and steamed rice Perfect accompaniments for savoring every last drop of that glorious sauce.
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- Mix the salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt in a bowl. Toss in the chicken chunks, making sure they are fully coated in the marinade.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches and sear until golden on each side (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sauté until soft and fragrant (around 3-4 minutes).
Build the Sauce
- Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Season and Simmer
- Pour in heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and curry powder. Stir until combined and simmer gently for about 10 minutes until thickened.
Finish with Butter
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon over warm steamed rice or naan. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor. Adjust spices to suit your heat preference. Use fresh spices for better flavor. Don't rush the simmer to deepen flavor.