Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A plate of homemade butter chicken garnished with fresh cilantro, served with steamed rice and naan bread on a vibrant table.

Your Weeknight Culinary Escape: Homemade Butter Chicken Delight

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Experience the ultimate weeknight escape with this homemade Butter Chicken Delight, a quick and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe delivers authentic taste without hours of preparation, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tbsp butter or ghee
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, pour in crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and remaining butter, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot over steamed basmati rice, naan, or cauliflower rice.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
  • You can replace chicken with paneer, tofu, or vegetables like cauliflower or potatoes for a vegetarian option.
  • Ensure marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Reheat gently on stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Dairy-Free,vegetarian option possible

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
  • Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg