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Homemade Butter Chicken That’s Comforting and Simple

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This quick and easy butter chicken is full of creamy tomato flavor and warm Indian spices — perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

For Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • Salt to taste

For Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp ground fenugreek (kasuri methi)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix chicken with marinade ingredients. Let rest for 15–30 minutes.
  2. In a skillet, heat oil or butter. Sear chicken until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In same pan, add butter and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook 1 minute.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thick.
  5. Add cream and return chicken to pan. Simmer until chicken is fully cooked.
  6. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Notes

For dairy-free, use coconut milk and coconut yogurt. Add more chili powder for heat. Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.