Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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

If you have ever craved the creamy, dreamy flavors of Indian cuisine but thought it too complicated to make at home, let me introduce you to the ultimate game-changer: the Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. This dish delivers that rich, velvety sauce and tender, flavorful chicken that everyone loves, all without hours of fuss and fancy ingredients. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests, you’ll soon find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again as it brilliantly balances simplicity with mouthwatering indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan filled with bright red tomato sauce, smooth and thick, covering the bottom. On top, there are small pieces of cooked chicken with a golden-brown color, scattered over the sauce. A woman's hand is holding a light wooden spatula on the right side, stirring the chicken and sauce. The background and surface around the pan are white marbled. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the depth of flavor, the luscious texture, or the vibrant color that makes this dish so inviting. Ready your pantry and fridge because these essentials will bring the authentic comfort of butter chicken right into your kitchen.

Skinless boneless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, these are perfect for soaking up the marinade and sauce.
Salt: Enhances all flavors subtly throughout the recipe.
Garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic punch to the chicken marinade.
Sweet paprika: Offers a mild smoky sweetness and appealing color.
Curry powder: Brings the classic Indian spice blend into the dish.
Greek yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a gentle tang to the marinade.
Vegetable oil: Vital for cooking the chicken and sautéing aromatics evenly.
Butter: Divided for cooking and finishing, it gives the sauce its renowned richness.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh for a fragrant, punchy background.
Medium onion: Provides sweetness and body when sautéed.
Tomato sauce: Forms the base of the luscious, comforting sauce.
Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the sauce.
Heavy cream: Creates that luxurious, creamy texture butter chicken is famous for.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who prefer a bit of kick.
Garam masala: A quintessential spice blend that layers in complexity.
Freshly chopped parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
Naan bread and steamed rice: Essential accompaniments to soak up every last bit of sauce.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt in a medium bowl. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with those signature buttery and spiced notes that will sing in the final dish. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked all the way through. This quick sear locks in juices and gives the chicken a wonderful texture. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside, keeping the flavorful oil in the pan for the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

Turn the heat down to medium and toss in 1 tablespoon of butter. Use it to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty browned bits left behind from the chicken. Add the minced garlic and diced onion with a pinch of salt, sautéing them gently until the onions become soft and translucent. These aromatics build the foundation for the rich butter chicken sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, letting everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors. Then, add your chicken back into the skillet and mix it well with the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream slowly, stirring until the sauce turns a gorgeous orange hue that signifies creamy indulgence is on its way.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the cayenne pepper if using, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the entire dish simmer gently for 10 minutes. This slow simmer lets the spices marry perfectly, creating that unforgettable depth of flavor butter chicken is known for. Adjust salt and spices to suit your taste as the aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

For the final touch, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter, letting it melt luxuriously into the sauce. This step gives the sauce its signature silkiness and richness that will have everyone coming back for seconds. If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a fresh pop of green and a slight herbal brightness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your masterpiece piping hot alongside warm naan bread and fluffy steamed rice. The combination of creamy butter chicken with the soft naan is pure comfort heaven, and the rice soaks up the sauce with every perfect bite. Get ready for compliments because this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is sure to wow!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

A white pan filled with a thick, creamy orange sauce with small chunks, topped with light green chopped herbs sprinkled evenly over the surface. The pan sits on a black stovetop with a white marbled background, and behind it are two blue salt and pepper shakers and a tall blue vase. The sauce has a smooth, slightly textured surface with a rich and creamy look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your butter chicken visually and flavor-wise, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or coriander leaves. A swirl of cream on top can add extra creaminess and that restaurant-quality look that’s sure to impress. These simple finishing touches brighten the dish and make it irresistibly appealing at the table.

Side Dishes

Naan bread and steamed basmati rice are classic partners in crime for butter chicken. The naan is perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce, while the fluffy rice balances the richness beautifully. For a twist, try serving with roasted vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad to add some freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this butter chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or spoon it into mini naan pizzas for a fun appetizer. Wrapping leftovers in warm chapatis with a drizzle of yogurt or chutney also makes for a tasty on-the-go meal. The possibilities to enjoy this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe are as delightful as the dish itself!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Butter chicken keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and vibrant flavor. Reheat gently to avoid breaking the sauce, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready whenever cravings strike.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, too. Let the butter chicken cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your butter chicken slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This careful reheating keeps the sauce creamy and prevents the chicken from drying out. If the sauce thickens too much, adding a splash of water or cream will bring it back to that perfect consistency effortlessly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast can be used, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender during cooking. If you prefer breast, just be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out more easily.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream gives butter chicken its signature richness, but you can substitute with coconut cream or a mix of milk and yogurt for a lighter version. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor and texture.

How spicy is this butter chicken?

This recipe is generally mild but flavorful. The optional cayenne pepper allows you to control the heat level, so feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! Marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then just combine and heat everything when ready to serve. It’s a great option for busy days or entertaining.

What can I do if the sauce is too runny?

If your sauce feels too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with ⅓ cup of water and add it to the simmering sauce. Stir gently and let it thicken over a few minutes for a perfect consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a total winner in my book—rich, comforting, and surprisingly straightforward. Once you give it a try, I’m sure it will become a staple in your cooking rotation, perfect for any occasion when you want something that tastes special without a ton of effort. So grab those ingredients, dive in, and savor every creamy, flavorful bite!