Introduction
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is one of those recipes that proves comfort food does not have to be complicated. I love making this dish on busy evenings when I want something deeply flavorful but still achievable with simple steps. Butter chicken has a reputation for being time-consuming, but this version delivers all the creamy, spiced goodness in a much faster and more approachable way. Tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, finished with butter and cream, creates a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying every time. The balance of warmth from the spices and smooth richness from the sauce makes it a favorite for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Served with rice or flatbread, this butter chicken is cozy, reliable, and guaranteed to please anyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is fast, beginner-friendly, and packed with classic flavor. It uses pantry spices, comes together in one pan, and delivers restaurant-style results at home. The sauce is creamy without being heavy, and the chicken stays tender and juicy.
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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe – Rich, Creamy, and Comforting
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with warm Indian spices, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in garam masala, paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and sugar.
- Simmer for 5 more minutes until sauce is creamy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
- Serve with basmati rice or naan bread.
- Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness.
- Adjust cream and spice levels to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken Breast or Thighs
Chicken provides tender protein and absorbs the rich sauce beautifully.
Butter
Butter adds richness and classic flavor to the sauce.
Olive Oil
Olive oil helps brown the chicken and balance the butter.
Garlic
Garlic adds depth and savory aroma.
Ginger
Ginger brings warmth and freshness to the dish.
Tomato Purée
Tomato purée forms the base of the sauce and adds mild acidity.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates the signature smooth, creamy texture.
Garam Masala
Garam masala adds warmth and complexity.
Paprika
Paprika adds color and mild smoky sweetness.
Cumin
Cumin provides earthy depth.
Turmeric
Turmeric adds color and subtle earthiness.
Salt
Salt enhances all flavors.
Sugar
Sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Directions
Begin by heating olive oil and a portion of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season lightly with salt, and cook until lightly browned and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pan, melt remaining butter and add garlic and ginger. Cook briefly until fragrant, then stir in paprika, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. Add the tomato purée and sugar, stirring well. Simmer the sauce for several minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat evenly. Pour in the heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is smooth and rich. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Equipment needed
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed.
Variations and Customizations
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is easy to adapt. You can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Add chili powder or cayenne for heat, or extra cream for a milder sauce. This dish also works well with paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian option. Serve it with basmati rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish provides protein from chicken and fats from butter and cream. It is rich and filling, best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overcook Chicken
Remove chicken early to keep it tender.
Low Simmer
Gentle heat keeps the sauce smooth.
Spice Balance
Adjust spices gradually to taste.
Rest Before Serving
Let the sauce sit briefly to deepen flavor.
FAQs
Is butter chicken spicy?
It is mild and creamy, with adjustable heat.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Tomato purée works best for smooth texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, flavor improves after resting.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, freeze without cream for best results.
What is the best chicken cut to use?
Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and dairy-free butter.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Not for this quick version.
What should I serve with butter chicken?
Rice, naan, or flatbread pair perfectly.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers or peas work well.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is mild and comforting.
Conclusion
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings classic Indian-inspired taste to your table without complicated steps. Creamy, rich, and satisfying, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a dependable, crowd-pleasing meal made right at home.
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