Get ready for a flavor explosion as you treat yourself to a homemade butter chicken that’s creamy, dreamy, and packed with aromatic spices. This is that classic Indian comfort food that never fails to deliver the perfect balance of richness and warmth. The tomato-cream sauce clings to each tender piece of marinated chicken, delivering vibrant notes of garam masala, a gentle kick from red chili powder, and earthy depth from cumin and coriander. Bright lemon juice in the marinade brings a subtle tang, while butter and heavy cream transform the sauce into luscious silk. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or planning a special dinner, this dish will wrap you in cozy, heartwarming goodness with every bite.
Making butter chicken at home feels like a culinary celebration in your own kitchen. You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the marinade and chopping aromatics, then let it rest for at least an hour (or overnight for extra flavor). After about 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll end up with a fragrant, velvety curry that looks and tastes like it came from your favorite Indian restaurant. I still remember the first time I whipped up this recipe—my family was in awe, and I couldn’t believe how simple it was to achieve restaurant-quality results. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned spice lover, this intermediate-level recipe guides you every step of the way. Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring that irresistible butter chicken magic home tonight!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HOMEMADE BUTTER CHICKEN
Before you dive into the cooking process, it’s important to understand the role each ingredient plays. From tenderizing the chicken to building layers of warm, comforting flavor, every element contributes to the final symphony on your plate.
- Boneless chicken: The star of the show, cut into bite-sized pieces to absorb the marinade and cook evenly.
- Plain yogurt: Acts as a tenderizer and creamy base for the marinade, helping spices adhere and mellowing their intensity.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity, breaking down protein fibers in the chicken for extra tenderness.
- Ground cumin: Brings a subtle, earthy warmth and nutty undertones to the dish.
- Garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that infuses the chicken and sauce with layers of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and more.
- Ground coriander: Enhances the curry with light citrus notes and a gentle, woodsy aroma.
- Turmeric powder: Provides a golden hue and a mild, peppery flavor with healthful benefits.
- Red chili powder: Delivers controlled heat—adjust to taste for mild warmth or a spicier kick.
- Vegetable oil: Used for searing the chicken, ensuring a light crust and preventing sticking.
- Butter: Enriches the sauce with a silky mouthfeel and signature buttery flavor.
- Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed to create a sweet, aromatic base for the curry.
- Garlic: Minced to add pungent, savory depth when cooked until fragrant.
- Ginger: Grated for a bright, zesty bite that cuts through the richness.
- Canned tomato purée: Builds the body of the sauce, offering sweet acidity and smooth texture.
- Heavy cream: Blends into the sauce for indulgent creaminess and a luxurious finish.
- Salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances the natural taste of ingredients.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped as a garnish, contributing a fresh, herbaceous pop at the end.
HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE BUTTER CHICKEN
Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s walk through the cooking process in clear, flavorful detail. You’ll start by crafting a vibrant marinade, then sear the chicken, build a savory sauce, and finish with a lush pour of cream. Follow these steps to transform your kitchen into an aromatic haven of spices and warmth.
1. In a large bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, garam masala, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and red chili powder until smooth. This aromatic marinade forms the foundation of your dish.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and gently toss until each piece is coated. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to let the flavors fully penetrate.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken in the pan, shaking off excess yogurt, and cook until each piece is fully cooked and lightly golden, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes, scraping up any brown bits for extra depth.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking just until fragrant (1–2 minutes) to release their full aroma without burning.
6. Pour in the canned tomato purée, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the sauce thickens and the raw tomato taste mellows.
7. Sprinkle in extra ground cumin, garam masala, and salt, adjusting to your preferred spice level. Give it a taste and tweak as needed.
8. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to achieve a luxuriously creamy consistency that clings to the chicken.
9. Return the seared chicken to the pan, stirring to coat each piece in the velvety sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes so flavors meld completely.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving, adding bright color and a burst of herbal freshness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HOMEMADE BUTTER CHICKEN
How you serve this dish can turn a simple meal into a memorable feast. Presentation, side pairings, and contrasting flavors can all elevate your butter chicken from delicious to extraordinary. Take a moment to think about the textures and tastes you want to bring onto your table—soft, pillowy breads, fluffy grains, cooling accompaniments, and vibrant garnishes all work in harmony to create a well-rounded experience. Choose one or mix and match these ideas for a dinner that looks as stunning as it tastes.
- Serve steaming naan bread brushed with melted ghee alongside your butter chicken. Tear off pieces to scoop up every drop of the creamy sauce for an interactive, hands-on experience.
- Plate a bed of fluffy basmati rice, using a small bowl to mold the grains into a neat dome before gently ladling the curry around it. This creates an elegant, restaurant-style presentation.
- Offer a side of cucumber raita—a simple blend of yogurt, diced cucumber, and a pinch of cumin—to provide a cooling contrast against the warm spices and rich sauce.
- Garnish the finished curry with roughly chopped fresh cilantro, a light sprinkle of smoked paprika, and an extra swirl of cream. These finishing touches add vibrant color and a hint of smoky sweetness.
HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE BUTTER CHICKEN
Leftover butter chicken is a total delight the next day, as the flavors continue to deepen. Proper storage keeps your curry tasting just as good—if not better—than the moment it comes off the stove. Whether you plan to enjoy it over the week or freeze portions for busy nights, a few simple tips will help maintain that silky texture and robust spice profile. Read on for best practices that keep your dish fresh, flavorful, and ready whenever hunger strikes.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the curry to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation and preserve texture.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Divide into single- or family-size portions so you can thaw just what you need.
- To reheat from the fridge, gently warm the curry over medium-low heat in a saucepan. Add a splash of water or extra cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
- For frozen portions, allow the curry to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to a gentle simmer on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency.
CONCLUSION
We’ve covered every detail of creating a truly spectacular homemade butter chicken, from tenderizing the chicken in a spiced yogurt marinade to building a silky tomato-cream sauce that clings to every bite. You’ve learned how each ingredient contributes its own character—how cumin and coriander add earthy warmth, how ginger and garlic bring brightness, and how butter and cream weave it all into a luxurious finish. This intermediate-level recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, 25 minutes to cook, and just an hour (or more!) to rest, making it the perfect project for a weeknight dinner that feels special. Feel free to print and save this article for easy reference, and know you can return to it anytime you’re craving a taste of comfort and spice.
Don’t forget to scroll down to the FAQ below if you have questions about substitutions, spice levels, or make-ahead tips. I’d love to hear how your butter chicken turned out—drop a comment, share your feedback, or ask for help if you need guidance. Whether this is your first curry or one of many adventures in Indian cuisine, I’m here cheering you on. Enjoy every savory, velvety spoonful and happy cooking!
Homemade Butter Chicken
Description
This creamy butter chicken marries tender marinated chicken with a luscious tomato-cream sauce, enriched by garlic, ginger, and a blend of warming spices for a deeply satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to create the marinade.
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Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Mix well until all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
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Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add marinated chicken pieces and cook until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add butter and melt over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
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Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
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Pour in tomato purée and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Mix in remaining cumin, garam masala, and salt. Adjust spices to taste.
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Slowly add heavy cream, stirring continuously to ensure a creamy texture.
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Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat the pieces in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Note
- For a smokier flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the spice mix.
- If you prefer spicier dishes, increase the quantity of red chili powder.
- Serve with naan or basmati rice for a complete meal.
- The dish can be prepared a day in advance, as the flavors deepen when it sits overnight.
