Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
why make this recipe
Butter chicken is a beloved Indian dish that is both creamy and flavorful. It’s perfect for those who love rich, savory meals. This quick and easy homemade version allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality butter chicken in the comfort of your home. The best part? You can have it ready in less than an hour, making it suitable for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
how to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Ingredients :
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
Directions :
- In a bowl, mix the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Simmer for a few minutes.
- In another pan, cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Stir in the remaining butter. Simmer for a few more minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.
how to serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Serve this delicious butter chicken hot, accompanied by warm naan bread and a side of steamed rice. The combination of sauce and rice is perfect for soaking up the rich flavors. You can also pair it with a simple salad or some sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
how to store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
To store any leftovers, let the butter chicken cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Marinating the chicken for a longer time enhances the flavor. If possible, let it sit for up to 2 hours.
- Adjust the level of spices according to your taste. You can add more cayenne pepper for extra heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving; it adds a nice touch of color and freshness.
variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with paneer, tofu, or mixed vegetables. The cooking process remains the same; just adjust the cooking time for the vegetables.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just remember that chicken breasts can dry out more quickly, so cook them carefully.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk or a mixture of milk and cream for a lighter version, but it will change the flavor slightly.
3. How spicy is this butter chicken?
The level of spice can be adjusted according to your preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, skip the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount.

Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Simmer for a few minutes.
- In another pan, cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Stir in the remaining butter. Simmer for a few more minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.
