Craving a rich, flavorful Indian dish that’s simple to make at home? This quick & easy homemade butter chicken recipe is your answer! Known for its creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, this quick & easy homemade butter chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen without hours of cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with family, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that delivers bold flavors in just 30 minutes.
This recipe is all about simplicity and comfort. With pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a velvety, spiced butter chicken that rivals your favorite takeout. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish is approachable and customizable. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process, share tips for perfect results, and answer common questions. Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of butter chicken!
Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Fast and Simple
Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.
Rich and Creamy
The luscious tomato-cream sauce and tender chicken create a comforting, indulgent dish that’s full of flavor.
Family-Friendly
With its mild spices and creamy texture, this butter chicken is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile
Serve with rice, naan, or veggies, and adjust the spice level to suit your taste for a personalized meal.
Ingredients for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish. Most ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find!
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Butter Chicken Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice or jasmine rice
- Naan bread or roti
- Lime wedges for squeezing
Step-by-Step Recipe for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Work in batches if needed.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Chicken Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add garam masala, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more chili powder if desired.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve the butter chicken hot over cooked basmati rice with naan or roti on the side.
Tips for Perfect Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Marinate for Flavor
Even a quick 10-minute marinade enhances the chicken’s taste. If you have time, marinate for a few hours for richer flavor.
Use Fresh Spices
Fresh garam masala and other spices make a big difference in flavor. Toast them briefly to release their aroma.
Balance the Sauce
Adjust the cream or coconut milk to control the richness. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or more tomato sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Cook the chicken just until done to keep it tender. Overcooking can make it tough and dry.
Add Veggies
Stir in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers at the end for extra color and nutrition.
Variations of Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Spicy Butter Chicken
Increase the chili powder or add a diced green chili to the sauce for a fiery kick. Garnish with sliced jalapeños.
Coconut Butter Chicken
Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free, slightly sweet version with a tropical twist.
Vegetarian Butter Chicken
Swap chicken for paneer, tofu, or chickpeas. Adjust cooking time to heat the substitute through without overcooking.
Butter Chicken with Veggies
Add diced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for a heartier, veggie-packed dish.
Storing and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
- Store butter chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze the butter chicken (without rice) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
- Reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until heated through.
FAQs About Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and add great flavor. Cut into bite-sized pieces and cook as directed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce up to a day in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat gently and serve with fresh rice.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce or skip the chili powder and use mild paprika. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk instead of cream and replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.
What’s the best rice for butter chicken?
Basmati rice is traditional for its fluffy texture and aroma, but jasmine rice or brown rice are great alternatives.
Related Recipes:
- Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe
- Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
- Chicken and Potatoes with Dijon Cream Sauce Recipe
Final Thoughts
This quick & easy homemade butter chicken recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a go-to for any occasion. It’s fast, family-friendly, and delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a longtime fan, this dish is sure to impress with its rich sauce and tender chicken. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Quick & Easy HomemadChicken e Butter
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp chili flakes optional
- ½ cup tomato sauce or purée
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken cubes, season with salt and pepper, and sear until golden; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt remaining 1 tbsp butter and sauté onions until soft.
- Add garlic, ginger, cumin, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, and chili flakes; cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and return chicken to the skillet.
- Simmer everything together for 8–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is creamy.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.
Notes
- Chicken: You can use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes to make it mild or spicy.
- Cream Substitute: Coconut milk or Greek yogurt can be used instead of cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Storage: Keeps wel
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