If you’re craving a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant, this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is your new best friend. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up this classic Indian-inspired recipe at home—even on busy weeknights. It’s rich, delicious, and absolutely irresistible, perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests without the stress.
Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Butter Chicken
- Fast & fuss-free: Ready in under 40 minutes.
- Simple ingredients: Pantry staples + a few spices.
- Creamy comfort food: Perfect with rice or naan.
- Restaurant flavor at home: Save money, enjoy more!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this butter chicken recipe so amazing:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup tomato puree (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet or pan.
- Add chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sear until golden brown (don’t worry if not fully cooked yet). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- In the same pan, melt the butter.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant and golden.
- Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Toast the spices for 1 minute to unlock their full flavor.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
- Add tomato puree and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cream and mix until smooth and velvety.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
- Return chicken to the pan and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve with basmati rice, naan bread, or even quinoa for a lighter twist.
Practical Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
- For extra depth: Marinate chicken overnight in yogurt + spices.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of cream.
- Boost flavor: Add a pinch of fenugreek leaves (if you have them).
- Meal prep tip: This dish reheats beautifully—perfect for next-day leftovers.
Bonus Ideas
- Try a vegetarian version with paneer or chickpeas.
- Add spinach or peas for extra veggies.
- Double the sauce and freeze—it makes an amazing base for curries.
- Make it a party favorite by serving with garlic naan bites.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk and the butter for vegan butter or ghee substitute.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Simmer longer to let it thicken, or stir in a spoonful of cashew paste or Greek yogurt.
How spicy is this recipe?
This version is mild. Adjust chili powder for more heat, or add fresh chilies if you love spice.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Pin this recipe for later, share it with your foodie friends, and most importantly—try it tonight!
