Name: Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Hey y'all! If you crave comfort food that's rich, aromatic, and irresistibly creamy, you’re in for a treat. This Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce is a family-favorite recipe that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish delivers big flavor and warmth straight from your kitchen. Ready to master this restaurant classic at home? Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce

The velvety, spiced tomato sauce is incredibly flavorful yet mild enough for all ages.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.

Marinated chicken stays juicy and tender for the ultimate bite every time.
Easy to prepare ahead, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
You can customize the spice level to suit your taste buds!

Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon sugar
Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Steamed basmati rice or naan, for serving

How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
Add the chicken pieces and toss well to coat.
Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for extra flavor).

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken (shaking off excess marinade) and brown on both sides for 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd; work in batches if needed.
Remove chicken and set aside. (It will finish cooking in the sauce.)

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium, add remaining butter to the same skillet.
Sauté onion until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add tomato sauce and sugar, stir well, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Pour in the cream and return the chicken to the skillet.
Simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread.

Notes for the Best Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce

For extra depth, toast your spices before adding to the marinade (why to toast spices).

Don’t skip marinating; it’s key for tender, flavorful chicken.
Use chicken thighs for juicier results, but chicken breast works too.

Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce Variations

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for paneer or tofu and follow the same method.

Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice.
Spicy: Add 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or sliced fresh chilies for an extra kick.

Required Equipment for Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce

Large mixing bowl

Measuring spoons and cups
Large skillet or sauté pan
Cutting board and sharp knife

Wooden spoon or spatula

Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serving Recommendations for Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce

Serve with fluffy basmati rice, warm garlic naan, or roti for a classic pairing.
Pair with a cooling cucumber raita or a crisp green salad for balance.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a wedge of lemon for brightness.

Pro Tips for Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce

Use full-fat Greek yogurt and heavy cream for the creamiest, richest sauce (choosing the right yogurt).
Let the sauce simmer gently—high heat can cause the cream to separate.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld (safely reheating leftovers).

Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?: Yes! Chicken breast works well; just be careful not to overcook to keep it tender.
Is this recipe very spicy?: No, it’s mild by default but you can increase the chili powder for more heat.
How do I make the sauce extra smooth?: For an ultra-silky sauce, blend the sauce with an immersion blender before adding the cream and chicken back in.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

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Homemade Butter Chicken with Creamy Sauce