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A bowl of creamy homemade butter chicken served with warm naan and fluffy rice, featuring a rich orange sauce and tender marinated chicken pieces.

Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe (Rich, Easy & Perfect for Dinner)

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This butter chicken dish is a flavorful and comforting dinner option made with tender marinated chicken simmered in a velvety, spiced tomato-cream sauce. It’s easy to prepare, filled with warm aromatic spices, and pairs beautifully with naan or rice for a complete, satisfying meal. Ideal for anyone looking for a cozy, restaurant-style recipe at home, this dish brings bold flavor, creamy texture, and an irresistible aroma to your dinner table.

  • Total Time: 45 mins

Ingredients

Scale
Chicken & Marinade
  • 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter divided
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon curry powder
  • ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley optional, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, salt, and Greek yogurt. Mix until every piece is coated. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes while you prep the remaining ingredients. This step boosts flavor and keeps the chicken tender.

2. Sear the Chicken

Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on the outside and cooked through—about 8–10 minutes. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate but keep the flavorful oil in the pan.

3. Build the Sauce Bas

Lower the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. As it melts, scrape any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan—these deepen the flavor. Toss in the garlic and onion with a pinch of salt and sauté them until soft and aromatic.

4. Add Tomato Sauce & Simmer

Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in the sugar. Let the mixture lightly bubble for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend and the acidity mellows. The kitchen will already smell amazing at this point.

5. Add the Cooked Chicken & Cream

Return the seared chicken (and its juices) to the skillet. Stir gently, then pour in the heavy cream. The sauce will transform into a rich orange color as everything blends together.

6. Season & Simmer to Perfection

Add black pepper, curry powder, garam masala, and cayenne (if you enjoy a little heat). Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors deepen and the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Finish with Butter

Stir in the remaining cold butter. This final touch gives the sauce that signature silky finish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like.

8. Serve & Enjoy

Dish up this creamy butter chicken with warm naan and hot steamed rice. This dinner recipe is comforting, cozy, and unforgettable.

Notes

  • Marinate longer if you can — up to 4 hours enhances tenderness and flavor.
  • Don’t rush the simmer — gentle cooking develops the creamy, rich finish.
  • Use chicken thighs for best results; they stay juicy and flavorful.
  • Add butter at the end for that restaurant-style glossy sauce.
  • Author: Chef Berri
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: dinner