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Homemade Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Restaurant-Quality Recipe at Home

Authentic homemade butter chicken with tender marinated chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Restaurant-quality Indian dish made at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks,
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt,
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste,
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala,
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice,
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin,
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric,
  • 1 teaspoon salt,
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or butter,
  • 1 large onion, diced,
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree,
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream,
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste,
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala (additional),
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika,
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  • Combine chicken chunks with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, lemon juice, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
  • Heat ghee in heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown marinated chicken pieces in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  • In same pot, sauté diced onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant. Add tomato puree, tomato paste, and spices. Cook 8-10 minutes until oil separates.
  • Return chicken to pot, add heavy cream, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature and sauce is creamy.
  • Let rest 5 minutes off heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with basmati rice and naan bread.

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