One Pan Spicy Sesame Butter Chicken

One Pan Spicy Sesame Butter Chicken is a rich, aromatic dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a simple, one-pan format. It features tender chicken cooked in a creamy coconut and tomato-based sauce, enhanced by garam masala and a spicy chili butter topping for extra depth and warmth. Perfect served over rice or with naan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience—less mess, easy cleanup
• Big, bold flavors with customizable heat
• A creamy, spiced sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken
• Ready in under an hour—ideal for weeknight dinners
• Pairs perfectly with rice, naan, or a fresh salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1–2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons cold salted butter, sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Steamed rice and naan, for serving

Chili Butter:

• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Directions

1. In a large baking dish, combine chicken, yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. Let marinate for 5–10 minutes at room temperature.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Add chopped onion to the baking dish. Pour in coconut milk and tomato paste. Stir gently to combine into a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Distribute the butter slices over the top. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
5. Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbling.
6. While the chicken bakes, prepare the chili butter: melt butter in a small saucepan with chili flakes and paprika over medium heat until slightly browned and fragrant. Remove from heat.
7. Spoon the chili butter over the baked chicken, garnish with cilantro, and serve with steamed rice and naan.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
• Total Time: 45–55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.
• Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized veggies.
• Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini before baking.
• Less Heat: Use only ½ teaspoon of cayenne and omit chili butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave in intervals until heated through. Add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce, if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Marinate the chicken and prep the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Bake when ready.

Is the chili butter optional?

Yes, but it adds great flavor and a spicy finish.

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato paste?

Tomato paste gives a richer sauce. If using diced tomatoes, reduce the coconut milk slightly.

Can I use non-dairy yogurt?

Yes, a thick plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond works well.

What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed basmati rice, naan, or roasted veggies are excellent pairings.

How spicy is this recipe?

Medium-spicy, but easily adjustable with more or less cayenne and chili flakes.

Can I use chicken with bones?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by 10–15 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What does sesame add to the recipe?

Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and slight crunch to contrast the creamy sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and slightly increase cooking time if needed.

Does the sauce thicken as it cools?

Yes. The sauce will thicken upon standing, making leftovers especially rich and flavorful.

Conclusion

One Pan Spicy Sesame Butter Chicken is your new go-to for effortless comfort food with global flair. It’s packed with warm spices, creamy texture, and just the right amount of heat. With only one dish to clean and a flavor that rivals takeout, it’s a must-try for any home cook.

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