Imagine this: You’re sitting in a cozy restaurant, the aroma of fragrant spices and creamy butter chicken wafting through the air. You take your first bite, and it’s pure bliss—warm, comforting, and flavorful. Now, what if I told you that you can recreate that same magical experience in your very own kitchen? With this Homemade Butter Chicken recipe, you don’t need to go to a fancy Indian restaurant to enjoy this iconic dish. You’ll make it from scratch with simple ingredients and easy steps, and it’ll taste even better than takeout.

This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests who love vibrant, hearty dishes. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how to make the best butter chicken from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Restaurant Quality at Home: This recipe delivers all the rich, creamy, and spiced flavors you love from your favorite Indian takeout.
Simple Ingredients: No need to hunt for hard-to-find items—this recipe uses pantry staples and fresh produce.
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, make it healthier, or pair it with your favorite sides.
Perfect for Everyone: It’s a family-friendly dish that will satisfy picky eaters and foodies alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Butter Chicken

Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to make this creamy, flavorful dish:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Yellow onions	2 medium (~13 oz)	Peeled, halved, and sliced.
Chicken breast	2 lbs	Boneless, skinless, and cubed.
Red bell pepper	1 medium	Diced for added sweetness.
Carrots	3 medium (5-6 oz)	Diced for texture and flavor.
Tomato sauce	1 (15-oz) can	The base of the creamy sauce.
Tomato paste	1 (6-oz) can	Adds richness to the sauce.
Lemon juice	½ lemon	Balances the spices.
Garlic cloves	2	Minced for aromatic flavor.
Fresh ginger	1 tablespoon	(~2-inch piece) minced.
Curry powder	3 tablespoons	Adds the classic spiced flavor.
Garam masala	2 teaspoons	A warm spice blend for authenticity.
Fine salt	½ teaspoon	Enhances the dish.
Salted butter	1 tablespoon	Chilled and cut into pieces.
Greek yogurt	½ cup	Adds creaminess (use whole, low-fat, or fat-free).
Half-and-half	½ cup	Creamy and rich for the sauce.
Optional for serving	White rice, naan	Add fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or toasted sesame seeds.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Butter Chicken

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather and prep all your ingredients. Slice the onions, cube the chicken, dice the red bell pepper and carrots, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything ready will make the process seamless.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add a drizzle of oil and sauté the sliced yellow onions until soft and golden, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Cook the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken breast to the skillet and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage—it will finish cooking in the sauce.

4. Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced red bell pepper and carrots. Cook for 3–4 minutes, letting the vegetables soften slightly.

5. Build the Sauce

Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, curry powder, garam masala, and fine salt to the skillet. Stir well to combine, coating the chicken and vegetables in the flavorful mixture.

6. Simmer for Flavor

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 15–20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the chicken is cooked through.

7. Add the Creaminess

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and half-and-half. These ingredients give the butter chicken its signature creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor.
Add the chilled butter pieces, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce.

8. Taste and Adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, curry powder, or lemon juice based on your preference.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the butter chicken over cooked white rice or cauliflower rice. Add a side of warm naan bread and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or toasted sesame seeds for an authentic touch.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and high-quality spices make a big difference in flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cooking the chicken gently in the sauce keeps it tender and juicy.
Customize the Spice Level: Add red chili powder for extra heat, or use mild curry powder for a kid-friendly version.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the butter chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen.

Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken

Rice Options: Serve with steamed basmati rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Bread Pairings: Naan, roti, or paratha are perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
Vegetable Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, a cucumber salad, or a refreshing yogurt raita.

Customizable Variations

Vegetarian Butter Chicken: Swap the chicken for cubed paneer, tofu, or chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of yogurt and half-and-half for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Make It Sweeter: Add a teaspoon of honey or a dash of cinnamon for a subtle sweet note.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	320
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fat	14g
Fiber	3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Butter chicken tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

2. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Absolutely. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. What can I use instead of chicken breast?
You can use chicken thighs, which are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

4. How do I make it spicier?
Add red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the sauce, or serve with spicy chutney on the side.

5. Can I make butter chicken without tomatoes?
While tomatoes are a key ingredient, you can try substituting them with roasted red peppers blended with a splash of vinegar for a unique twist.

6. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered until it thickens. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce.

Why Homemade Butter Chicken Works

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich, creamy, and spiced flavors. The blend of curry powder, garam masala, and fresh ingredients creates an authentic and satisfying dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Conclusion: Bring the Flavors of India to Your Kitchen

With this Homemade Butter Chicken recipe, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without ever leaving your home. It’s a dish that brings people together, fills your home with the most incredible aromas, and guarantees clean plates at the table.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.