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A plate of authentic homemade butter chicken garnished with fresh coriander, served alongside naan bread and sliced vegetables.

Authentic Homemade Butter Chicken: Easy & Flavorful Indian Delight

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Discover the best easy butter chicken recipe for a flavorful Indian dinner. Learn step-by-step instructions to make authentic homemade Indian butter chicken easily at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this rich, creamy dish combines aromatic spices and tender chicken to create an unforgettable meal.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free option
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: Combine chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon yogurt (optional), a pinch of salt, and half of the spices. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook until fragrant. Add garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt; cook for 1 minute.
  3. Cook the chicken: Add marinated chicken to skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add tomato puree and simmer: Pour in tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in cream and cook for another 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Finish with butter and garnish: Add a pat of butter, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

  • You can substitute coconut cream for heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Next-level flavor can be achieved by marinating the chicken longer or overnight.
  • Serve with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 410 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 37 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg