Homemade Butter Chicken (Printable Recipe)

Creamy butter chicken cooked with rich tomato sauce and warm spices. Perfect with naan and rice.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Chicken & Marinade

01 - 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
05 - 0.5 teaspoon curry powder
06 - 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt

→ Butter Chicken Sauce

07 - 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
08 - 3 tablespoons butter, divided
09 - 6 garlic cloves, minced
10 - 1 medium onion, diced
11 - 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
12 - 1 teaspoon sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
14 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
15 - 2 cups heavy cream
16 - 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
17 - 1 teaspoon garam masala
18 - 0.5 teaspoon curry powder
19 - 0.25 cup freshly chopped parsley (optional)

→ To Serve

20 - Naan bread
21 - Steamed rice

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly and allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside, retaining the oil in the skillet.
03 - Lower heat to medium, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, and deglaze the pan. Add garlic and onion with a pinch of salt, cooking until onion is translucent and aromatic.
04 - Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, return chicken to skillet, and pour in heavy cream. Mix until sauce becomes smooth and orange-toned.
05 - Add cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
06 - Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter for a rich finish. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
07 - Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours to enhance flavor depth.
02 - Toast spices lightly in oil before adding liquids to intensify aroma.
03 - Add cold butter at the end to create a velvety texture.

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