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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

A simplified, creamy butter chicken recipe made with tender marinated chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato-butter sauce. Perfect for weeknights while still delivering classic Indian-inspired flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1/2 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt, adjusted to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp curry powder
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowls
  • spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 8–10 minutes until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic and onion with a pinch of salt. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer 2–3 minutes, then return chicken to the skillet.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth. Add cayenne (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper.
  6. Simmer gently on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Stir in remaining cold butter until fully melted and incorporated. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Adding butter at the end creates a richer, smoother sauce.
  • Use low heat once cream is added to prevent curdling.
  • This dish tastes even better the next day.