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Delicious quick weeknight butter chicken served with rice

Butter Chicken

A creamy, tomato-forward curry that combines rich flavors with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Indian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks Thighs provide the best texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt For the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon curry powder For the marinade.
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (plain) Can substitute with plain yogurt or mayonnaise.
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups heavy cream Use full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free.
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional, adjust for spice level.
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 0.5 teaspoon curry powder For the sauce.
  • 0.25 cup freshly chopped parsley Optional, for garnish.
For Serving
  • Naan bread Naan bread
  • Steamed rice Steamed rice

Method
 

Marinate Chicken
  1. Combine chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Make the Sauce
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  2. Pour in the tomato sauce. Stir in sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, and cayenne pepper if using. Add garam masala and curry powder. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
  1. While the sauce simmers, warm a second skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining vegetable oil. Add the marinated chicken in single layers. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Finish the Dish
  1. Transfer the cooked chicken into the sauce. Stir in the remaining butter until melted and incorporated. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice with warm naan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

Notes

Cool leftovers within two hours and store in an airtight container. Recommended storage for up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. For freezing, portion into containers for up to 2 to 3 months. Reheat gently.

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