Name: Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 600g boneless chicken thighs, cut into pieces; 2 tablespoons plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 400g canned crushed tomatoes; 100ml heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Hey y'all! If you've ever craved the luscious, creamy, and spice-packed flavors of restaurant-style Indian cuisine, this Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices is for you. With its tender chicken pieces bathed in a velvety, aromatic tomato sauce, this dish is both comforting and impressive—perfect for family dinners, a cozy date night, or your next dinner party. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices

Super creamy and rich, with the perfect balance of spices.
Easy to make at home with accessible ingredients.

Ready in just under an hour for quick weeknight dinners.
Customizable for heat levels and dietary needs.
A true crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with naan or rice.

Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices Ingredients

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon garam masala
2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

1.5 teaspoon salt, divided
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated

1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon sugar
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions: How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add chicken pieces, tossing until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon butter and the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken (in batches if needed), searing for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned but not cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Spiced Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes until golden and soft. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, remaining 0.5 teaspoon salt, and sugar. Simmer uncovered on medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and fragrant.

Step 4: Finish and Serve the Butter Chicken

Return chicken (and juices) to skillet. Stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust salt and spice if needed.
Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan.

Notes & Helpful Tips

Marinating longer gives the chicken extra tenderness and deep flavor—overnight is amazing if you can! (Why marinating works)

For a silky sauce, blend the tomato base before adding the cream and chicken back in.
Adjust the chili powder or use cayenne for your preferred heat level.

Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices Variations

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for paneer cubes, or use roasted cauliflower for a satisfying meatless version.

Lighter: Use light cream, coconut milk, or even cashew cream for a healthier sauce.
Spicy: Add diced green chilies or extra chili powder for more heat.

Required Equipment for Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices

Large mixing bowl

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Cutting board and sharp knife

Storage Instructions for Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This dish freezes well—cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Serving Recommendations for Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices

Serve with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or roti to soak up the creamy sauce.
Add a side of cucumber raita or simple salad for freshness.
Pair with a chilled glass of mango lassi for a complete Indian meal experience (mango lassi recipe).

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices

Always use chicken thighs for juicier, more tender results (chicken thighs vs. breasts explained).
For extra depth, toast your spices in the pan for 30 seconds before adding other ingredients.
Let the finished dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

FAQ: Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?: Yes, but thighs tend to stay more moist and flavorful—reduce cooking time slightly if using breasts.
Is this butter chicken spicy?: It's mild-medium as written, but you can easily adjust the chili powder or add fresh chilies to your taste.
Can I make this dairy-free?: Absolutely! Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of cream, and a plant-based yogurt for marinating.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

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Homemade Butter Chicken with Spices