Name: Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe That Feels Like A Big Hug
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Chicken Thighs (Substitution: Use chicken breasts for a leaner option but may affect tenderness.); 1 cup Greek Yogurt (Substitution: Use plain yogurt or omit for a dairy-free version.); 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used for a stronger taste.); 1 tsp Sweet Paprika (Smoked paprika can be substituted for a smoky flavor.); 1 tbsp Curry Powder (Adjust amount based on personal spice tolerance.); 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil (Can use olive oil or coconut oil for added flavor.); 3 tbsp Butter (Recommended to use a combination of butter and oil for best results.); 3 cloves Garlic (Substitution: Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.); 1 medium Onion (Shallots can be used for milder sweetness.); 15 oz Tomato Sauce (Pureed fresh tomatoes can be used for a homemade feel.); 1 tbsp Sugar (Omit if avoiding sugar.); 1 tsp Black Pepper (Adjust quantity for personal heat preference.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitution: Coconut cream for a dairy-free option.); 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Omit for a milder flavor or adjust for heat tolerance.); 1 tbsp Garam Masala (Substitute with homemade blend or additional curry powder.); 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Substitution: Cilantro can also be used for a different flavor profile.)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen transported me instantly to a bustling market in India, where spices dance in the air. This Easy Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe captures that vibrant essence, featuring a delightful fusion of rich flavors and a velvety texture that wraps around tender chicken like a warm hug. It’s the kind of comfort food that turns ordinary weeknights into special occasions, all while being incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike. Imagine gathering your loved ones around the table, indulging in this creamy delight paired with warm naan and fluffy rice, creating memories with every bite. Are you ready to savor the essence of homemade Butter Chicken in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Butter Chicken so beloved?

Creamy, Rich Flavor: This Butter Chicken boasts a lusciously creamy sauce that’s impossible to resist. Each spoonful envelops tender chicken in a symphony of aromatic spices, creating a dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that rivals your favorite takeout.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it! Swap chicken thighs for breasts, add vegetables for a healthy twist, or even use paneer for a delightful vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless!

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this rich dish. Serve it with naan and rice, and watch everyone gather around your table for seconds!

For those who love Indian cuisine, this Butter Chicken is a must-try. And if you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, check out my Napa Chicken Salad or Chicken Dumplings for delightful meal experiences.

Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Chicken Thighs – Main protein source providing juicy texture; substitution: Use chicken breasts for a leaner option but may affect tenderness.
• Greek Yogurt – Adds moisture and tenderness during marination; substitution: Use plain yogurt or omit for a dairy-free version.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth of flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a stronger taste.
• Sweet Paprika – Contributes sweetness and vibrant color; smoked paprika can be substituted for a smoky flavor.
• Curry Powder – Adds warmth and depth; adjust amount based on personal spice tolerance.

For the Sauce
• Vegetable Oil (3 tbsp) – Essential for sautéing chicken; can use olive oil or coconut oil for added flavor.
• Butter (3 tbsp) – Adds richness to the sauce; recommended to use a combination of butter and oil for best results.
• Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced for maximum flavor; substitution: Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable, but freshness is best.
• Onion – Provides an aromatic base flavor when sautéed; shallots can be used for milder sweetness.
• Tomato Sauce (15 oz) – The base of the sauce offering acidity and richness; pureed fresh tomatoes can be used for a homemade feel.
• Sugar – Balances acidity in the tomato sauce; omit if avoiding sugar.
• Black Pepper – Provides a mild bite; adjust quantity for personal heat preference.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce; substitution: Coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adds optional heat; omit for a milder flavor or adjust for heat tolerance.
• Garam Masala – Enhances the dish’s depth with its spice blend; substitute with homemade blend or additional curry powder.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds freshness as a garnish; cilantro can also be used for a different flavor profile.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a homemade Butter Chicken that will become a beloved family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Ensure every piece is well-coated in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, preferably up to an hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor absorption.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet, cooking them for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Use tongs to turn the chicken halfway for even cooking, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce Base
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, and add butter. When melted, toss in minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing them until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This aromatic base is the heart of your Butter Chicken recipe, enhancing the dish’s rich flavor.

Step 4: Build Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, mixing well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once integrated, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in the delicious sauce, and simmer for an additional minute to heat through.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently until the sauce takes on a beautiful orange hue. This will create the silky, creamy texture that defines your Easy Creamy Butter Chicken. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for 2-3 minutes, thickening the mixture slightly while blending the flavors.

Step 6: Season
Add cayenne pepper, garam masala, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to incorporate these spices fully into the sauce. Let your Butter Chicken simmer for another 10 minutes, during which the flavors will deepen, creating that aromatic, satisfying dish everyone loves.

Step 7: Finish with Butter
For added richness, stir in the remaining butter until it melts completely into the sauce. This step will ensure your Butter Chicken has that luxurious, silky finish. If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

Step 8: Serve
Serve this delightful Easy Creamy Butter Chicken hot with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice. Pairing it with a crisp salad or cucumber raita will enhance your meal, making it a comforting and satisfying experience that feels like a big hug.

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that perfectly balance the rich flavors of your homemade Butter Chicken.

Fluffy Basmati Rice: The light and fragrant rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making every bite delightful and satisfying.
Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up the buttery chicken and sauce, adding a comforting texture.
Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side complements the spices in the Butter Chicken, providing a refreshing contrast that brightens the dish.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: A colorful array of roasted veggies adds sweetness and a crunch, beautifully balancing the silken richness of the butter chicken.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these potatoes serve as a hearty base that pairs wonderfully with the flavorful sauce.
Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy addition that enhances the savory elements of the Butter Chicken and adds a burst of flavor.
Herbed Salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add a crisp, refreshing note to your meal.
Crispy Papadam: These crispy flatbreads add a satisfying crunch, making them a fun accompaniment alongside the creamy main dish.
Coconut Lassi: For a delightful drink that complements the meal, try a refreshing coconut lassi—a creamy blend of yogurt and coconut that perfectly soothes the palate.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Creamy Butter Chicken are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those spices to truly infuse the meat. Simply combine the chicken, salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and yogurt in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate. For the sauce, you can prepare the base (without adding cream) and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge; this keeps everything wonderfully fresh. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the sauce, add the cream, return the chicken to simmer, and enjoy a delectable meal that feels as good as homemade, with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Butter Chicken

Uniform Chicken Cuts: Ensure that chicken pieces are uniformly cut for consistent cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked or overcooked in the Butter Chicken.
Thickening Sauce: If your sauce comes out too runny, create a slurry using cornstarch and water, adding it to the sauce while simmering until thickened to your desired consistency.
Ingredient Temperature: Let your ingredients come to room temperature before cooking. This helps to achieve better flavor integration and cooking results in your Butter Chicken.
Spice Control: Be cautious with cayenne pepper! Measure carefully based on your heat preference, and taste as you go to prevent overpowering the dish.
Marination Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, or overnight if possible. This allows the spices to infuse deeply into the meat, enhancing the overall taste.

Butter Chicken Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore these tasty twists and substitutions to make this Butter Chicken your own!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a rich, tropical flavor that still keeps the sauce creamy.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken thighs for paneer for a delightful vegetarian dish that absorbs all the wonderful spices.
Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or a diced green chili for an intensified heat level that fire up your taste buds!
Extra Veggies: Include bell peppers, peas, or spinach in the sauce for added nutrition and a pop of color to your dish.
Flavor Boost: Try adding a tablespoon of ground ginger to the marinade for an exciting zing that complements the spices beautifully.
Naan Alternative: Serve with cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of traditional naan for a low-carb twist that still delivers on taste.
Homemade Sauce: Replace canned tomato sauce with pureed fresh tomatoes for a fresher, more vibrant flavor profile in your Butter Chicken.
Nutty Finish: Stir in some finely chopped cashews at the end for a delightful crunch and a layer of nuttiness that contrasts with the creamy sauce.

Whether you choose to enrich the flavors or swap out ingredients, these variations will ensure your Butter Chicken remains a beloved recipe in your home. For more delightful chicken recipes, you might also love my Cashew Chicken Am or Basil Chicken Lettuce Wraps!

How to Store and Freeze Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before sealing to retain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce thickens, stir in a splash of water or cream to restore its creamy texture.

Extra Tip: Always ensure your Butter Chicken is perfectly cooled before storing, and enjoy the delightful flavors even days later!

Easy Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are the preferred choice for Butter Chicken due to their juiciness and tenderness when cooked. However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can use chicken breasts, but be mindful that they may dry out faster.

How should I store leftover Butter Chicken?
To keep your Butter Chicken fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing it to maintain its flavors. Always reheat gently to preserve that creamy texture.

Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Easy Creamy Butter Chicken, portion it into freezer-safe containers after it has cooled. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s consistency.

How can I adjust the spice levels in Butter Chicken?
Very easily! Adjusting the spice levels is all about personal preference. Start by using less cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder dish. After simmering, you can taste and gradually add more cayenne or even additional spices like garam masala until you reach your desired heat level.

What if my Butter Chicken sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thin, don’t worry! Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce, allowing it to cook for a few minutes until thickened. This method will give your Butter Chicken that luscious, creamy consistency you love!

Is Butter Chicken suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Definitely! To make a dairy-free version of Butter Chicken, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream. Ensure you also replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free spread. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors of the dish without any dairy!