Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken features tender marinated chicken simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with warm spices for a comforting and flavorful meal.
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
1/2 cup plain full-fat yogurt
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
2 tablespoons minced garlic, divided
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon additional garam masala
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon sugar, optional
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving
Combine yogurt, spices, garlic, ginger, and salt. Coat chicken and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Heat oil in a skillet and sear chicken in batches until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Melt butter in the same skillet and sauté onion until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in additional garam masala and cook briefly.
Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes.
Return chicken to skillet and stir in heavy cream.
Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens.
Adjust seasoning, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges.
Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Use chicken breast if preferred, adjusting cook time carefully. Coconut milk can replace cream for a dairy-free version.