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Easy Butter Chicken


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

A quick and easy homemade butter chicken with tender chicken thighs in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder
  • ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional)
  • Naan bread or steamed rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sauté until soft and translucent.
  4. Build the Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, additional salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Season and Simmer: Add heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and remaining curry powder. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer on low for about 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  6. Finish with Butter: Stir in the last tablespoon of butter for a rich finish, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Adjust spices to your taste; for a lighter version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a blend of yogurt and milk.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: butter chicken, Indian cuisine, quick dinner, creamy chicken