Air Fryer Butter Chicken
Ready in about 39 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
Marinated chicken chunks charred in the air fryer then folded into a creamy, spiced tomato butter sauce. Air frying the chicken first gives that tandoor-style smokiness for a rich, restaurant-quality curry at home.
Ingredients
- 600 g chicken thigh, cubed
- 150 g yoghurt
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 400 g passata
- 50 g butter
- 100 ml double cream
- 1 tsp chilli powder
Method
- 1Marinate the chicken in yoghurt, 1 tbsp garam masala, ginger and garlic for 30 minutes.
- 2Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
- 3Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes, tossing halfway, until charred.
- 4Meanwhile simmer the passata, butter, remaining garam masala and chilli, then stir in the cream.
- 5Check the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F), then fold it into the sauce.
- 6Simmer 5 minutes and serve with rice or naan.
Tips for the best results
- Charring the chicken in the air fryer adds authentic smoky depth.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the tomato if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer butter chicken?+
Cook at 200°C / 400°F for 12-15 min, toss halfway.