Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon turmeric; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich and creamy goodness of homemade Butter Chicken, a classic Indian dish bursting with aromatic spices and tender chicken simmered in a deliciously spiced tomato cream sauce. Perfect over basmati rice or paired with warm naan, this comforting recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Discover how easy it is to recreate this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own home!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-11-13T08:43:47.841Z

Butter chicken, also known as 'Murgh Makhani', has its roots in Indian cuisine and has become a global favorite. This recipe simplifies the traditional cooking methods, allowing you to prepare this delicious dish with ease.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Homemade Butter Chicken is renowned for its exquisite blend of spices and rich flavors. The marinade, which includes yogurt and spices like garam masala and turmeric, tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with deep, aromatic notes. When combined with the creamy tomato sauce, the chicken absorbs the flavors, creating a dish that's both comforting and vibrant. Each bite showcases the harmonious balance of spicy, savory, and creamy elements, making it an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.

One of the secrets to achieving the perfect Butter Chicken lies in the ingredients. Using fresh spices elevates the dish, allowing you to discover layers of flavor that dried alternatives may not provide. Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic add a lively zing that beautifully complements the rich butter and cream. Whether you're cooking for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe brings restaurant-quality indulgence right to your kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Butter Chicken shines when served over fluffy basmati rice, soaking up the creamy sauce and creating a delightful meal that satisfies. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, adding a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the dish's richness. Warm naan or roti is another classic accompaniment, perfect for scooping up the exquisite sauce and enhancing your dining experience.

For those looking to elevate their meal further, think about adding a side of saag paneer or a fresh cucumber salad. The slight bitterness of spinach and the coolness of cucumber provide balance against the decadent Butter Chicken, making for a truly complete Indian feast. This combination not only satisfies the palate but also offers a variety of textures and flavors that are sure to impress.

Tips for Perfecting Your Butter Chicken

To truly master Butter Chicken, don’t rush the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade overnight not only enhances the flavor but also makes for more tender and juicy meat when cooked. If time is of the essence, a minimum of 30 minutes is still beneficial. The key is to ensure every piece is well coated, allowing the spices to work their magic.

When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking. Brown the chicken in batches if necessary, as this will develop a richer flavor through the caramelization process. Finally, taste and adjust your sauce’s seasoning before serving. Sometimes a dash more salt or a hint of sugar can elevate the entire dish, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric
Salt to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix well and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and sauté onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, over basmati rice or with naan.

Enjoy your homemade Butter Chicken!

Nutritional Benefits of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits when prepared with care. Lean chicken breast is a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The use of yogurt in the marinade provides probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Coupled with tomatoes rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidants, this dish can be a wholesome part of your diet when balanced with the right sides.

While the creamy sauce does contain fats from butter and cream, choosing to substitute with lighter alternatives, such as coconut milk or cashew cream, can make the dish healthier without compromising on flavor. Pairing the Butter Chicken with nutrient-dense options like brown rice or whole grain naan can also add to the overall nutritional profile.

Vegetarian Adaptation

For those who prefer a vegetarian version of Butter Chicken, there's great news! You can easily substitute the chicken with paneer or a variety of vegetables such as cauliflower, chickpeas, or tofu. The marinating process remains the same, allowing the ingredients to soak up the spices brilliantly. This adaptation maintains the essence of the dish while catering to dietary preferences.

By using paneer, you create a delightful texture and flavor contrast against the rich, creamy sauce. Alternatively, chickpeas can add protein and fiber, making your meal hearty and satisfying. With a few tweaks, your Vegetarian Butter Chicken can be just as delightful and flavorful as its traditional counterpart.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's important to let the dish cool down to room temperature before covering it, as this prevents condensation and maintains flavor. Reheating is simple: either warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

If you're looking to extend the shelf life, Butter Chicken can be frozen for up to three months. Portion it out in freezer-friendly containers for easy meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently for a meal that's almost as good as fresh. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or pre-planned dinners!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and drained before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk for a lighter version with a different flavor profile.