Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste); Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the rich flavors of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-11T11:35:42.927Z

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine to your kitchen without the fuss. With tender chicken simmered in a creamy tomato sauce, it's a family favorite that can be made in under an hour.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that coats each piece of chicken perfectly
Quick prep and cooking time make it perfect for busy weeknights
Easily customizable with your favorite spices and heat levels

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal, this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is your go-to recipe. With its rich and creamy sauce, this dish delivers on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying for the whole family.

This recipe is designed for busy cooks who still want to enjoy the comfort of a homemade meal. The quick preparation and cooking time mean you can have this delicious dish on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to the flavors of Indian cuisine without overwhelming them.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best features of this butter chicken recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your family's preferences. If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add more chili powder. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

Additionally, this recipe allows for substitutions based on what you have in your pantry. Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also throw in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to make it a more balanced meal. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your butter chicken experience, consider serving it alongside warm naan bread or fluffy basmati rice. Both options are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and complement the dish beautifully. A side of quick-pickled onions or a crisp salad can also add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal.

For those who love a little extra flavor, a drizzle of lemon juice over the finished dish can brighten up the rich flavors. You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and taste.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp salt
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Sauce

1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl before cooking for the best flavor.

Cooking Steps

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with salt, turmeric, and garam masala. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and sauté onions until translucent. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute. Add tomato puree, chili powder, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, then stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve hot with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store your butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they meld together, making it a great option for meal prep. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain the sauce's consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the butter chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a traditional approach, serve it with fragrant basmati rice or fluffy naan to soak up the sauce. If you’re looking for something lighter, a simple cucumber salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

For beverage pairings, consider a chilled glass of white wine or a fruity lassi. Both options complement the flavors of the butter chicken beautifully and enhance your meal experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs are recommended for a juicier result.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the chili powder to your taste.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with butter chicken?

It pairs well with basmati rice, naan, or a side salad.