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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

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  • Author: Evelyn
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A creamy, comforting butter chicken dish with tender marinated chicken thighs in a rich tomato-cream sauce, ready in about 45 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp curry powder, plus extra for sauce
  • 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 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Naan bread and steamed rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium, melt 1 tbsp butter in the same skillet, and scrape up browned bits. Add garlic, onion, and a pinch of salt; sauté until translucent.
  4. Add tomato sauce and sugar, and simmer for 2 minutes. Return chicken to the pan, pour in heavy cream, and stir until the sauce is orange in color.
  5. Season with black pepper, cayenne (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and more salt to taste. Simmer on low for 10 minutes.
  6. Stir in remaining butter until melted for a silky finish. Garnish with parsley if desired.
  7. Serve hot with naan and steamed rice.

Notes

  • Chicken breasts, turkey, or tofu can replace thighs for variations.
  • Coconut cream or cashew cream can be used instead of heavy cream for dairy-free options.
  • Adjust cayenne to control spice level.
  • Can be made a day ahead and reheated gently.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg