Dinner Recipes

February 4, 2026

Homemade Butter Chicken: 7 Reasons to Fall in Love

Name: Homemade Butter Chicken: 7 Reasons to Fall in Love
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces; 1 cup yogurt; 2 onions, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 2 tbsp butter; Salt to taste

📊

Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

34 Views • 14 min read

Homemade Butter Chicken: 7 Reasons to Fall in Love

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love for Homemade Butter Chicken! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, with its rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender pieces of chicken. Every time I make it, the aroma fills my kitchen and instantly transports me to my favorite Indian restaurant. Butter chicken, or murgh makhani as it’s traditionally called, is such a beloved classic in Indian cuisine and for good reason! The combination of spices, the buttery goodness, and that luscious tomato base create a symphony of flavors that’s just irresistible.

I remember the first time I tried butter chicken; I was at a cozy little spot downtown, and I was hooked after just one bite! The way the spices dance together and the creaminess of the sauce—it’s honestly one of my go-to comfort foods. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home! Trust me, once you whip up this Homemade Butter Chicken, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen too. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients for Homemade Butter Chicken

Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this incredible dish! Having all your ingredients prepped and ready makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 lbs chicken – I usually go for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for that extra tenderness, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces.
1 cup yogurt – Use plain yogurt to marinate the chicken. It adds creaminess and helps tenderize the meat.
2 onions – Finely chop these; they’ll add sweet depth to the sauce as they caramelize.
4 cloves garlic – Minced garlic brings an aromatic punch, so don’t skimp on it!
1 inch ginger – Grated ginger adds a warm zing that’s totally essential for that authentic flavor.
1 can (14 oz) tomato puree – This is the heart of your sauce. It gives that beautiful rich color and flavor.
1 cup heavy cream – For that luxurious creaminess that makes butter chicken so comforting.
1 tbsp garam masala – This spice blend is the star of the show! It’s fragrant and warming, adding complexity.
1 tsp cumin – Adds a lovely earthy flavor that complements the garam masala perfectly.
1 tsp coriander – This brightens up the dish and balances the spices.
2 tbsp butter – For sautéing the onions and adding a luscious finish to the sauce.
Salt to taste – Always taste as you go and season accordingly!

And there you have it! These ingredients come together to create a feast that’s full of flavor and comfort. Make sure to gather everything before you start, and you’ll be on your way to making the best Homemade Butter Chicken you’ve ever tasted!

How to Prepare Homemade Butter Chicken

Alright, let’s get cooking! The process might seem a little involved, but trust me, it’s totally worth it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious Homemade Butter Chicken that’ll make your taste buds sing! Here’s how I do it:

Marinate the chicken: First things first, let’s get that chicken marinating! In a bowl, combine your chicken pieces with the yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of salt. I like to let it marinate for at least 1 hour—this not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also makes it super tender. If you can, marinate it overnight in the fridge for even better results!
Cook the onions: Once the chicken is ready, heat the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You want them to caramelize nicely, which brings out their sweetness!
Add garlic and ginger: Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 2 minutes. Oh my gosh, the smell at this point is heavenly!
Brown the chicken: Time to add that marinated chicken into the pan! Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked yet; it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
Stir in the tomato puree: Next, pour in the tomato puree and stir everything together. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes on low heat. This is where all the flavors meld together, so don’t rush this step!
Add the cream: Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. This is what gives it that luscious, velvety texture that you just can’t resist!
Serve: Once it’s all done, serve your Homemade Butter Chicken hot with fluffy rice or warm naan. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro if you like a pop of color and flavor!

And there you have it! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a homemade meal that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Butter Chicken

Rich in flavor: The combination of spices creates a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and exciting. Each bite is a delightful explosion of savory goodness!
Easy to make: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks!
Perfect for meal prep: This butter chicken stores beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. Just make a big pot, and you’ll have delicious meals ready for the week!
Comforting and satisfying: There’s nothing quite like curling up with a bowl of warm, creamy butter chicken on a chilly night. It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices to your liking or try different proteins. It’s versatile, so you can keep it interesting every time you make it!
Great for sharing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress and bring everyone together around the table.

Honestly, once you try this Homemade Butter Chicken, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic. It’s simply irresistible, and you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite!

Tips for Success in Making Homemade Butter Chicken

Now that you’re all set to make this delicious Homemade Butter Chicken, let me share some of my best tips to ensure you nail it every time! These little pointers can make a big difference in flavor and texture, trust me!

Marinate longer for tenderness: If you have the time, let your chicken marinate overnight. This not only amplifies the flavor but also makes the chicken incredibly tender. Just toss it in the fridge and forget about it until you’re ready to cook!
Adjust spices to your taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the spices! If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the garam masala. For a milder version, you can reduce the amount of these spices.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan: Cooking in a heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute the heat evenly, preventing the sauce from sticking or burning. It’s worth it, especially for a dish that simmers for a while!
Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently is crucial. This is where all those flavors meld together beautifully. Patience pays off, so don’t skip this step!
Garnish for freshness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime right before serving adds a burst of brightness that elevates the dish. It’s a simple touch that makes a big difference!
Pair with the right sides: Serve your butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up that luscious sauce. You can also add a side of cool cucumber raita to balance the spices—it’s a winning combination!
Make it ahead: This dish actually tastes even better the next day! If you can, make a batch ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove, and you’ll be good to go!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Homemade Butter Chicken that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Variations of Homemade Butter Chicken

One of the best things about Homemade Butter Chicken is its versatility! Once you get the hang of the basic recipe, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Paneer Butter Masala: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese). Just cube the paneer and follow the same steps! It absorbs the flavors beautifully and gives you that creamy indulgence.
Butter Chicken with Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach at the end of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition. It blends right in and adds a lovely earthiness to the dish.
Lighter Version: For a lighter take, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt. It still delivers creaminess but with fewer calories. Just be mindful that coconut milk will give it a slightly different flavor, which can be delicious in its own right!
Spicy Butter Chicken: If you’re feeling adventurous, amp up the heat by adding some chopped green chilies or a dash of chili powder while cooking. Just remember to taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
Different Proteins: You can use shrimp or fish instead of chicken for a seafood take on butter chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since seafood cooks much quicker!
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: If you love the convenience of slow cooking, throw all your ingredients into a slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to deepen even further!
Butter Chicken Bowl: Create a hearty meal by serving your butter chicken over a bed of quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice. It adds a nutritious twist and makes it a bit more filling!

With these variations, you can keep your Homemade Butter Chicken exciting and tailored to your tastes. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information for Homemade Butter Chicken

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delightful dish! It’s always good to have an idea of what you’re enjoying, especially when it’s as rich and flavorful as Homemade Butter Chicken. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. If you’re making adjustments, like swapping out heavy cream for a lighter alternative, that’ll also affect the numbers! But don’t worry too much about the details; just enjoy every creamy, spicy bite of this Homemade Butter Chicken! It’s all about balance and savoring the flavors.

FAQ About Homemade Butter Chicken

Got questions about Homemade Butter Chicken? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my tried-and-true answers:

How do I store leftovers?
I always recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, and you might want to add a splash of water or cream to keep it nice and creamy!

Can I freeze Homemade Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! This dish freezes wonderfully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What can I serve with Homemade Butter Chicken?
I love serving my butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for scooping up that delicious sauce. You can also add a refreshing side salad or some cool cucumber raita to balance the spices—it’s a match made in heaven!

Can I adjust the spice levels?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of garam masala, cumin, and coriander. On the flip side, if you like it spicier, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or green chilies during the cooking process. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily switch out the chicken for paneer or even veggies like cauliflower, bell peppers, and carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as vegetables will cook faster than chicken.

What if I don’t have garam masala?
If you’re in a pinch, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts cumin, coriander, and a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still give you a tasty result!

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works great for marinating, and it’ll add an extra creaminess to your butter chicken. Just make sure it’s plain, not flavored, to keep those authentic flavors intact!

There you have it! I hope these FAQs help you on your journey to making the best Homemade Butter Chicken ever. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask—I’m here to help!

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Butter Chicken

Now that you’ve whipped up your delicious Homemade Butter Chicken, let’s talk about how to serve it for the ultimate meal experience! Trust me, the right sides can take this dish to the next level. Here are my favorite suggestions:

Fluffy Basmati Rice: This is my go-to! The light and fragrant basmati rice pairs perfectly with the rich sauce, soaking up all that buttery goodness. Just steam it up, and you’re set!
Warm Naan: Oh, you can’t go wrong with naan! Whether it’s plain, garlic, or even stuffed, it’s perfect for scooping up the chicken and sauce. Plus, who doesn’t love tearing off a piece of warm bread?
Cucumber Raita: A cool cucumber raita is a fantastic way to balance the spices in the butter chicken. Just mix plain yogurt with diced cucumbers, mint, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing side!
Saag Paneer: For a little extra veggie action, serve your butter chicken alongside saag paneer. The creamy spinach and cheese dish complements the flavors and adds a nice pop of color to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: If you want to keep it simple, some roasted veggies like cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers can add a hearty touch. Toss them with a bit of olive oil and spices before roasting for added flavor!
Simple Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can be a refreshing contrast to the creamy butter chicken. It adds a nice crunch and brightness to the meal.

Mix and match these suggestions to create a feast that’s not only satisfying but also vibrant and full of flavor! Your Homemade Butter Chicken deserves the best accompaniments, and with these options, your table will be a delightful sight. Enjoy every bite!

What do you think?

Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!