Go Back

Butter Chicken

A quick and easy weeknight version of traditional butter chicken with tender chicken thighs in a rich, creamy tomato sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs Use thighs for tenderness.
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt For marinating.
  • 1 teaspoon salt For seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika Adds sweetness and color.
  • 0.5 teaspoon curry powder For warm spice flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning.
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for heat.
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil For browning the chicken.
  • 3 tablespoons butter Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced For aromatics.
  • 1 medium onion, diced For the base flavor.
  • 15 ounces canned tomato sauce Foundation for the sauce.
  • 2 cups heavy cream For a rich, creamy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Balances acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala For warmth and aroma.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Marinate the chicken in a bowl with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt for at least 15 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the marinated chicken, browning it on all sides before removing it to a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper; scrape up browned bits and simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Mix in heavy cream, garam masala, and curry powder; simmer for another 5 minutes until thickened.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet; simmer for 5-10 minutes until cooked through and the sauce is glossy.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, garnished with parsley alongside naan or rice.

Notes

This recipe is great for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain the smoothness of the cream sauce.