Description
A quick and easy homemade butter chicken made with tender marinated chicken thighs simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce—perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp additional curry powder
- 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Naan bread and steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add 1 tbsp butter to the same skillet. Add garlic and onion with a pinch of salt and sauté until onion is translucent.
- Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add cooked chicken and pour in heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
- Season with cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, additional curry powder, and black pepper. Simmer on low for 10 minutes.
- Stir in remaining 2 tbsp butter for a silky finish. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with naan and steamed rice.
Notes
- Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs—adjust cooking time to prevent drying.
- Substitute coconut cream or half-and-half for heavy cream if preferred.
- Use tomato paste diluted with water if out of tomato sauce.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt and plant-based butter.
- Thicken sauce with a cornstarch slurry if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
