Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting and flavorful as a classic Indian dish made right at home, and this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe perfectly delivers that restaurant-quality richness with so much less fuss. Tender chicken bites swim in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce bursting with aromatic spices, balancing warmth and zest in every spoonful. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with authentic taste without slaving in the kitchen, this recipe slips seamlessly into your routine while satisfying every craving for savory, buttery goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients lined up is the first step toward effortless magic in your kitchen. This list combines staple spices and fresh components that come together to create layers of flavor while keeping the process wonderfully uncomplicated.

• Chicken thighs (1 ½ pounds): Their tenderness and fat content keep the chicken juicy and flavorful after cooking.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances spices in both the marinade and sauce.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a mellow, savory depth to the marinade.
• Sweet paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers a gentle smokiness and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
• Curry powder (½ teaspoon and ½ teaspoon): Brings warmth and complexity, layering subtle spice notes.
• Greek yogurt (1 tablespoon): Tenderizes the chicken while introducing a tangy creaminess to the marinade.
• Vegetable oil (3 tablespoons): A neutral base for sautéing onions and garlic, helping to release their aroma without overpowering the dish.
• Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Builds rich, silky texture and indulgence, a signature element of butter chicken.
• Garlic cloves (6, minced): Fresh garlic delivers pungency and a vibrant punch that dried powders can’t quite match.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Sweetens the sauce naturally, balancing the tomato’s acidity and bringing body.
• Tomato sauce (1 15-ounce can): Forms the tangy, savory base of the sauce and lends vibrant red color.
• Sugar (1 teaspoon): Smooths out the acidity, keeping the sauce well-rounded and luscious.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds mild heat and aromatic spice to complement the other seasonings.
• Heavy cream (2 cups): The ultimate ingredient that transforms your sauce into a decedent, buttery dream.
• Cayenne pepper (½ teaspoon, optional): For those who want a gentle kick of heat, it warms the palate without overwhelming.
• Garam masala (1 teaspoon): The finishing spice blend that brings that authentic Indian flair and unmistakable fragrance.
• Freshly chopped parsley (¼ cup, optional): Adds a burst of color and fresh flavor as a light garnish.
• Naan bread and steamed rice: Essential for scooping up the sauce and soaking in every bit of buttery goodness.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. This simple marinade not only infuses flavor deep into each bite but also ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy when cooked. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes so the spices and yogurt can do their magic.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken chunks and sauté until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. The goal here is to develop a golden crust that locks in moisture which will finish cooking later in the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

Push the cooked chicken to the side or remove it temporarily. Add two tablespoons of butter and the remaining vegetable oil to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This foundation builds the rich aroma and sweetness essential for a classic butter chicken sauce.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to blend it with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle in sugar, salt, black pepper, cayenne if you like spice, curry powder, and garam masala. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Finish Cooking Chicken

Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream and the remaining tablespoon of butter for that velvety smooth finish. Return the browned chicken to the skillet and simmer everything together for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, perfectly soaking up the luscious sauce.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds fresh color and a mild herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, spiced sauce. For an extra touch, a spoonful of chilled yogurt or a drizzle of cream on top can add visual appeal and balance the richness.

Side Dishes

This butter chicken pairs wonderfully with soft, fluffy naan bread or steamed jasmine or basmati rice, both perfect for scooping up the sauce. You can also add a simple cucumber raita or a crisp salad to lighten the meal and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the butter chicken in small ramekins accompanied by garlic naan triangles for individual sharing. Another idea is plating the dish over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb variation that still absorbs all the sauce perfectly. Adding a lemon wedge on the side can brighten bites for those who like a little zest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover butter chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, butter chicken freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer without significant loss of flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the butter chicken on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of water or cream while reheating helps maintain a smooth, silky sauce. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but cover it to keep moisture trapped.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts can also work for this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream is key for that rich, velvety sauce that butter chicken is famous for. However, you can substitute with coconut milk or half-and-half for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, though the taste and texture will vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chili to the sauce for extra heat. You could also include a dash of chili powder depending on your heat preference.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 20 minutes is sufficient for quick marination, but if you have time, letting it sit for 2-3 hours or overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to penetrate deeper.

What’s the best way to serve leftover butter chicken?

Leftovers are delicious on rice or naan the next day, but you can also turn them into a wrap filling with fresh veggies or toss with cooked pasta for a creamy Indian-inspired pasta dish.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about making this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe from scratch — the way spices mingle, the creamy sauce coats tender chicken, and the inviting aroma fills your kitchen. It’s a recipe that warms hearts while being simple enough to whip up anytime and perfect for sharing. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will quickly become a beloved regular in your meal rotation.

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